Friday, February 27, 2009

English, GED and college info at Hispanic Family Night in Springfield March 3

Families welcome; entertainment for children provided

From Volunteer State Community College:
Volunteer State Community College and Workforce Essentials of Robertson County are teaming up for a night designed to help the Hispanic community. Information about English classes, GED preparation, and college courses and degrees will be available at the event on March 3 in Springfield.

“This is our first Hispanic Family Night in Springfield. They’ve been quite popular in Gallatin. We’ll have advice and information for the entire family, from teenagers getting ready for college, to parents who are looking to improve English skills,” said Eric Melcher, Communications Coordinator for Vol State. “It will be held at the Tennessee Career Center in Springfield, which is a good community resource for everyone who wants basic education and career help.”

Translators will be available for Spanish speakers. Representatives from Robertson County Adult Education will answer questions about Basic English classes, and high school GED classes. Vol State staff will assist with information about college level ESOL English classes, as well as the 70 academic programs, and several degree options, offered by the college. Vol State has a main campus in Gallatin, but the college also offers several evening courses each semester at Springfield High School.

Hispanic Family Night will be held on Tuesday, March 3rd from 5:30pm to 8pm at the Tennessee Career Center in Springfield, 229 10th Ave East, just two blocks off of highway 41. It is free and open to everyone. Families can show up at any time during the event. There will be refreshments, and coloring books and videos to entertain the children. For more information in English call 615-230-3570 and for more information in Spanish call 615-230-4846.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Race, religion, and reconciliation to be addressed in Thursday lunch panel at Hispanic church on Concord Road

Panel: Rev. William Buchanan, Fifteenth Avenue Baptist Church; Dr. David Choi, Bridge Community Church; Ps. Scott Roley, Christ Community Church; Ps. Germán Castro, El Shaddai Christian Church

Operation Andrew is sponsoring a lunch panel Thursday called Coming Together, to discuss race and reconciliation in the context of area pastors' congregations and communities. The event will be held at the El Shaddai Christian Church at 10604 Concord Road, from 11:30am - 1pm.

According to its web site, Operation Andrew formed in the wake of the most recent Billy Graham Crusade appearance in Nashville:
During the first four days of June 2000, the Middle Tennessee Billy Graham Crusade was held in Nashville. The Executive Committee of the Crusade was deeply moved by all that it saw God do as racial, ethnic, cultural, and denominational walls were broken down for the purposes of evangelism. As the Crusade ended the Executive Committee agreed that some ongoing strategy needed to be developed so that the good things that the Crusade produced might continue and expand. A special committee was appointed and before the end of the year The Operation Andrew Group was formed as a non-profit 501(c)3 ministry organization.
The group was also instrumental in bringing Argentina evangelist Luis Palau to Nashville in 2007. The Hispanic Nashville Notebook published this report from the Palau event, noting that then-Mayor Bill Purcell and then-Vice Mayor Howard Gentry marked the occasion as a moment of both diversity and unity for Nashville:
Mayor Purcell boasted of Nashville being a "friendly" and "welcoming" city. Vice Mayor Gentry said, "Nashville looks like it's never looked before," in an apparent nod to the diversity of the crowd, which was well represented by various ethnic groups, including African-Americans, Asians, caucasians, and indigenous/mestizo Hispanics. "It is great to see you here in peace, love, and unity," continued Gentry to applause. "I want to thank Luis Palau for bringing hope to Nashville," he said.
English and Spanish were both present at Palau:
[Q]uintet El Trio de Hoy performed in English and Spanish. At one point, the band asked in Spanish, "How many Spanish-speakers do we have here," and received audible applause in response... English and Spanish t-shirts in the crowd included references to Bible verses, such as Isaiah 40:31... and Phillipians 4:13...
Nashville has also addressed race, reconciliation, and religion in the locally written and produced film The Second Chance, a 2006 movie starring Michael W. Smith and jeff obafemi carr, with a supporting role performed by Yuri Cunza, current president of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (Hispanic Nashville Notebook story here).

Chilean wine tasting tonight at Amerigo

From Amerigo Italian Restaurant:
Chilean Wine Tasting
Wednesday, February 25
6:00 - 8:00

Join us for a Chilean Wine Tasting!

Chile possesses a terrific diversity of climate and geography with its enormous coastline occupying a 2,610 mile tract of South America's coastline. The two greatest influences on Chile's climate are the huge mass of the Pacific Ocean to the West, and the spectacular mountain range of the Andes to the East. Together, these assist in producing four excellent Chilean wines:

Apaltagna Reserva Chardonnay, 2008
Characterized by notes of vanilla, cream and banana. In the mouth, it is crisp, dry and refreshing.

Penalolen Sauvignon Blanc, 2006
Rich and complex flavor due to the use of pure, ripe fruit. The aromas of mandarin orange and fresh cut flowers, combined with good acidity, make this Sauvignon Blanc a classic partner for food.

Apaltagna Grial Carmenere, 2007
The seductive flavors of blackberry, grilled peppers and dark, spicy cherry linger on the palate of this rich wine.

Casas del Bosque Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007
Aromas of plums, spices and red fruits, integrated with soft notes of smoke, spice and earthy character.

Wine Tasting is available in our lounge area from 6:00-8:00 on Wednesday, February 25. The cost is $13 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

No reservations are necessary.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Amerigo Italian Restaurant
1920 West End Ave.
Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 320-1740

Middle Tennessee Hispanic Democrats meet Thursday


From the Middle Tennessee Hispanic Democrats:
The Middle Tennessee Hispanic Democrats are excited to invite you to their first meeting in 2009!

Please join us this coming Thursday February 26, 2009 at 12:00pm at the TNDP Headquarters (Freedom Room) to our first meeting of 2009. This reunion is very special as we will get together to celebrate the 2008 elections and our accomplishments with English-Only.

The Middle Tennessee Hispanic Democrats will also be electing new officers and discussing new projects for this exciting year.

Please ask your friends to join us!

We hope to see you there,

Myrna Velasquez
Editor
(615)870-4121

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Nashville Spanish Language Meetup Group tonight at Cuzco

From the Nashville Spanish Language Meetup Group:
Spanish Meetup @ Cuzco Peruvian Restaurant
Tuesday, February 24, 2009 6:30 PM
Cuzco Peruvian Restaurant
2805 Old Fort Parkway (K-Mart shopping center)
Murfreesboro TN 37128

Here's what people are saying about this Meetup Group:
"Very accomplished in Spanish, especially when compared to me. "
— Marilyn

"lots of fun and great cultural exchange"
— vanessa
Learn more about this Meetup

No hemos tenido la comida peruana desde que se cerró El Inca. Vamos a Cuzco. Es un poco más lejos que lo de estamos acostumbrados pero la comida es bien rica...y si no has probado un pisco sour y lo quieres hacer, Cuzco es el lugar. Chevere!

Want to read some reviews?
http://www.yelp.com/biz/cuzco-latin-cuisine-murfreesboro

Meet the owners and print a coupon:
http://cuzcotn.googlepages.com/

Monday, February 23, 2009

Using immigration to stimulate Tennessee economy has precedent in Reconstruction

Tennessee Governor Brownlow created state-level commission in 1869 and published handbook to attract immigrants in 1870

"Workers were sorely needed to rebuild the state, and outside capital was necessary to stimulate a sluggish economy."

Greg Siskind: "Immigration as stimulus"

A lot of people have been calling for a leveraging of immigration policy to address the current economic crisis, including the following:Although the crises created by the Civil War and the one we find ourselves in at the start of the 21st century are worlds apart, there is Reconstruction-era precedent for attracting immigrants to the State of Tennessee in a time of economic crisis. Tennessee Governor William Brownlow created a state-level Immigration Commission for this purpose in 1868, which in turn published The Tennessee Handbook and Immigrant's Guide in 1869. Robert Donald Rogers, in his M.A. thesis The Tennessee Staatszeitung, writes that Governor Brownlow's personal view of immigrants was quite negative, but the practical reality was that "[w]orkers were sorely needed to rebuild the state, and outside capital was necessary to stimulate a sluggish economy."

Despite the suggestions of Tennesseans Greg Siskind and Martin Kennedy, the prospect of using immigration as stimulus does not appear to be incorporated into any of the state-level proposals on immigration that are described in today's article in the Tennessean.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Two events this Thursday: Spanish TV Festival and Minority Supplier Mixer

spanishtvfestival

Spanish TV celebrates its 5th season with a free mixer this Thursday, February 19, from 6:30-8:30 pm at Bethel World Outreach Center, 5670 Granny White Pike in Brentwood (see flyer above).


The Tennessee Minority Supplier Diversity Council and the MBEIC will also host an event that same night from 5:30-7:00 pm at the Blackstone Brewery, 1918 West End Avenue in Nashville. RSVP information is here.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Public Policy Forum: The Impact of Immigration in Tennessee

NAHCC to speak about the positive impact of our immigrant population and the importance of federal government to assert its role and preempt state and local immigration enforcement initiatives. The Research & Education Accountability for TN Comptroller's Office to present report about the benefits of immigrant populations in Tennessee
The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Department of Education
&
The University of Memphis

Present

Public Policy Forum
The Impact of Immigration:
How will Tennessee Address the Challenge

War Memorial Auditorium, Nashville, TN
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Luncheon 11 am
Panel Discussion 11:30 - 12:30 pm
Moderated by
Jacqueline Laínez,
Clinical Programs DirectorCecil C. Humphreys School of Law
Panel Participants:
Michael Hough ALEC - American Legislative Exchange Council
Barry Frager - The Frager Law Firm, P.C. Daron HallDavidson County Sheriff
Susan Mattson - Research & Education Accountability, TN Comptroller's Office
Yuri Cunza - Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Monday, February 16, 2009

Hispanic students represent under 2% of public higher education population in Tennessee, but trend points up

Small percentage of Hispanic students is on the rise

Schools see growth opportunity



The Tennessean reports here on the educational fair Volunteer State Community College hosted earlier this month, which was announced by the Hispanic Nashville Notebook here.

The report points out that "Hispanics make up less than 3 percent of the 7,200 students at Vol State."

Among the entire population of public colleges and universities statewide, the statistic appears to be just under 2 percent, according to a chart accompanying the story (reproduced above).

Both public and private universities in Tennessee are trying to attract Hispanic college students, according to this 2007 story in the Hispanic Nashville Notebook, which described the Hispanic recruitment efforts of Tennessee State University, Belmont University, UT-Knoxville, and Austin Peay.

This month's story touts Vol State's efforts:
"The college is very Hispanic-friendly," said Cristina Frasier, president of the Sumner Hispanic Alliance, which Vol State created in 2006. The group consists of about 25 business owners and community leaders and has partnered with the school on an annual cultural celebration and other events.

It hopes to begin a scholarship program this year, Frasier said.
In the 2007 story, Hispanic enrollment at Vanderbilt University was reported at 5.7%, with the number being 4.7% at Austin Peay, 1.7% at UT-Knoxvile, and 1% at Tennessee State University. As for the overall number of Hispanic students in higher education in 2007, the story at the time was that "Hispanic college students in Tennessee consistently number fewer than their African-American classmates — and often Asian students, as well."

While the lower representation of Hispanics as compared to African-Americans and Asians is still the case in 2009 - the pie chart above shows 38,580 African-American students and 9,373 Asian/Alaskan/American Indian and other students, compared to only 4,076 Hispanic students - Hispanic students in higher education are "one of the state's fastest-growing student populations," according to this month's story. The Tennessean's charts above indicate that Hispanic student representation at public institutions of higher education in this state has grown faster than the growth rate for white and black students, but at a slower pace than the combined category for other groups including Asian/Pacific and American Indian/Alaskan Native students.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Generational divide among German immigrant families in Reconstruction-era Nashville

Immigrants' children adopting Southerner mentality by 1870

Sermons in German for over 50 years

Second in a series

On February 3, the Hispanic Nashville Notebook started a series about the German-language newspaper Tennessee Staatszeitung and Nashville's German community, based on the research conducted by Robert Donald Rogers in his 1975 dissertation The Tennessee Staatszeitung.

Today's installment focuses on the generational and cultural divide between the German immigrants and their children:
The Germans who lived in Nashville in 1850 were by and large immigrants. By 1870 most of the Germans in the city belonged to the second generation. The average age during these two decades remained twenty but the median age dropped from 20.8 years to 15.4 years. These younger Germans were much less concerned with maintaining European ties and traditions than their parents were. ... [T]hey had grown up in Tennessee and many of them had a distinctly Southern point of view.

-The Tennessee Staatszeitung, Robert Donald Rogers, 1975, p. 11
Nashville's Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was dedicated during this time period, on August 14, 1859. According to the church's web site, the church "had been planned when Richard Pius Miles, the first Bishop of Nashville, realized the need for a Catholic church in North Nashville to serve the German families settling there."

Even though the children of immigrants were starting to see themselves as Southerners during Reconstruction in 1870, at the Church of the Assumption "most sermons were said in German until World War I," according to the Nashville Public Library.

Photo: Interior of Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Venezuela native and CMT producer Santos Lopez clings to wife, compassion after Mumbai attacks

Rudrani Devi shot twice, point-blank, by AK-56

Jim Ridley tells this story of Venezuela-born CMT producer Santos Lopez and his wife Rudrani Devi, who was injured in the terrorist attacks on Mumbai in November, 2008. Ridley frames the story as a tale of the couple's devotion in this week's Valentine's Day edition of the Nashville Scene.

Excerpts:
[T]heir romance was legend, even beyond their circle of friends—who ranged from staff at CMT, where Santos works as a producer, to Rudrani's celebrity clientele as a spiritual instructor.
...
They had been in each other's orbit without knowing since the 1980s, when the Venezuela-born Santos was a spike-haired fixture in Nashville rock clubs and Andi fronted an all-girl rock combo called the Paper Dolls. As a couple, they were now so close that from the moment Rudrani left for India, Santos wore two watches, one with his time, the other reading her time in Mumbai. He would have been with her, had he been able to get off work.
...
The terrorists had shot Rudrani twice, point-blank, with an AK-56. One bullet entered her right arm, just below her shoulder, and she pulls back her sleeve to show where it ripped through her triceps. Another bullet entered her right thigh, and still another burned her neck.
...
The attack continues to affect Rudrani and Santos' life in ways large and small. The couple's insurance did not cover the out-of-country medical expenses, and just last week Rudrani was forced to close her small clinic for spiritual instruction. (A fund has been set up to meet her expenses: Visit rudranidevi.com for more information.)
...
Above all, they refuse to be held captive by thoughts of vengeance. Rudrani says she forgave whoever shot her the night it happened. Santos, despite the immediate fury in his "Latin alpha male blood," eventually followed the lead of her compassion. His main regret, he says, is that he vowed at their wedding to protect her, and wasn't there in her moment of need.

She says he was.
Read the full story in the Scene here.

Also reporting on the November attacks from this couple's perspective were NewsChannel5 (also here), WSMV, The Oak Ridger, ABC News, and others.

Photo by Keerthivasan Rajamani. Licensed under Creative Commons.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Fundraiser tonight to fight human trafficking in Nashville


Sheyla Paz Hicks (of Paz Communications Inc. and SPANISH-TV) alerted me to this fundraiser to help stop human trafficking in Nashville. The event is 7-11pm tonight at the Tin Roof and features five artists - The Harters, The Lowry Sisters, Telephant, Jessica Brandhorst, and Sleep Til May. Cover is $5; suggested donation is $10. Proceeds will benefit Free for Life Ministries.

The Nashville City Paper reported here in July 2007 that there were "multiple brothels in Nashville with prostitutes that are exclusively foreign nationals of Latin American countries" that were at the time "the target of a statewide FBI investigation into possible sex slavery at the hands of an indicted Mexican national," and that more instances of trafficking were suspected but had not yet been uncovered. At the same time and in the same article, it was announced that Nashville was getting assistance from the U.S. Department of Heath and Human Services to form a “Rescue and Restore Victims of Human Trafficking” coalition, "to arm local agencies with the tools necessary to help identify trafficking and slavery victims." That coalition can be found at nashvillerescueandrestore.org

In 2006, the FBI freed a 14-year-old Mexican girl from forced prostitution in Nashville. In 2008, two men were arrested for forcing a 22-year-old Mexico City woman into prostitution at a Nashville motel. More stories at nashvillerescueandrestore.org

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Job hunters: target these opportunities

Long list of jobs below, plus career fair today

Good luck to everyone

The Hispanic Nashville Notebook hosts a job site called the Hispanic Nashville Workbook, but it is not the only Hispanic or bilingual employment listing in Middle Tennessee.

Latin Market Communications circulates a monthly job listing by e-mail. Many (but not all) of those jobs require bilingual language skills or are otherwise more attractive to the Hispanic job-seeker than opportunities in the general job market, but you can judge for yourself whether each job is for you. For more information on the Latin Market Communications job listings, contact Eva Melo at eva@latinmarketcommunications.com

The January 2009 Latin Market Communications jobs are below, including management and professional positions:
Nashville Area College to Career Fair, Nashville Area Teacher Recruitment Fair
February 10, 2009, Join the top area universities in welcoming bachelor, master and doctoral degree candidates, MBA's and alumni at the annual Nashville College to Career Fair. The fair is co-sponsored by sixteen institutions of higher education located in the Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky and Northern Alabama. Time & Location, Tennessee State Fairgrounds, Creative Arts Building - 500 Wedgewood Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bilingual Technical Writer (Translator)
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: Write and maintain documentation and help for company products in accordance with project plans. Translate existing and new deliverables from English to collaborate on documentation plans and schedules. Coordinate and communicate efforts with Publications team, product managers, business analysts, developers, and project manager. Follow best practices and documentation style guidelines. Qualifications: Degree in English, technical communications, computer science, information systems, or related field. Minimum 3 years of experience in technical communications or other related experience in a software development environment. Exceptional written and oral communication skills. Fluency in written Spanish. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines. Strong working knowledge of desktop layout and publishing software, help authoring software, Windows operating system, and browser-based technology. Ability to work comfortably with new and unfamiliar software applications. Working knowledge of the banking industry preferred. Contact Ashley Kyler, 615.886.1103

Office Manager Position
The Office Manager supports the infrastructure team and organization as a whole by ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the office, maintaining the general ledger and financial records, performing key human resources functions, communicating with vendors and contractors, and coordinating logistics for staff and board functions. Visit www.tnimmigrant.org for complete job description. To apply send a cover letter and résumé via e-mail to jobs@tnimmigrant.org with "Office Manager Search" in the subject line, or by postal mail to 442 Metroplex Dr Bldg D Ste 118. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. TIRRC is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages people of color, immigrants and refugees to apply. kasar@tnimmigrant.org

Communications Coordinator Position
The Communications Coordinator interacts with the media, builds alliances with key constituencies, and coordinates efforts to educate the public through general communications strategies and the Welcoming Tennessee Initiative. For general communications, key functions include monitoring press coverage, handling media inquiries, pursuing coverage of significant issues and events, training spokespeople and conducting media trainings for members. For the Welcoming Tennessee Initiative, key functions include holding educational presentations, facilitating local "welcoming committees," and recruiting and training "ambassadors" to coordinate local presentations and media strategies. The Communications Coordinator works as part of the campaigns team to develop and refine messages, mobilize allies, and maximize paid and earned media opportunities in support of the issues and campaigns prioritized by the membership. To apply send a cover letter and résumé via e-mail to jobs@tnimmigrant.org with "Communications Coordinator Position" in the subject line, or by postal mail to 442 Metroplex Dr Bldg D Ste 118. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. TIRRC is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages people of color, immigrants and refugees to apply. kasar@tnimmigrant.org

COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Under general supervision, answers incoming calls to the City of Franklin Police & Fire Departments; dispatches police officers & firefighters by radio & EMS by telephone; provides safety for police officers answering calls & processes information from incoming calls. Reports to the Senior Communications Officer. WILL BE WORKING SECOND OR THIRD SHIFT & WEEKENDS. HS diploma (or GED) required; must be at least 21 years of age; must be certified by the TBI within six months of employment; one to two years of dispatching and/or clerical experience (or related) preferred; or any equivalent. Must meet all State standards for public safety communications officers, including US citizenship, passing a medical examination , including drug & alcohol screen, have a record free from felony convictions and/or misdemeanors involving force, violence, theft, dishonesty, gambling or controlled substances. Salary: $15.08/hr, plus excellent benefits, Apply on-line at: www.franklintn.gov

E 9-1-1 Dispatchers.
We are recruiting for E 9-1-1 Dispatchers. Interested parties can apply on line at http://www.nashville.gov The job will remain posted until an adequate applicant pool is achieved.

Outreach and Diversity Coordinator.
RIP program, call Danny Wheeler, 963-1177.

Summer Internship
Every summer (early June-early August), promising Latino undergraduates from across the country are selected for an eight-week leadership training program in the nation's capital. While in DC, interns work in the offices of U.S. representatives. The curriculum focuses on work experience, community service, and educational and professional programming provided by CHCI. This comprehensive three-prong approach, coupled with the internship experience, provides an extraordinary learning and networking experience for students. Scholarship awards are designed to cover tuition, room and board, textbooks, and other educational expenses associated with college enrollment. Domestic round-trip transportation to Washington, DC. Summer housing. $2,500 total gross stipend for local expenses. Placement in a Congressional office. Weekly leadership development sessions. Applicants must be currently enrolled undergraduate students (applicants must have completed one year of college by the start of the program; college seniors graduating before the program begins are ineligible) High academic achievement (preference will be given to applicants with a 3.0 GPA or above). Consistent active participation in public and/or community service activities. U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency. Submit application online: http://www.chci.org/chciyouth/internship/internship.htm

Metro Summer Youth Internship Program
The Summer Youth Internship Program is a short-term learning and employment opportunity for Nashville Davidson County youth. Participants will be assigned to work at a Metro Department for twenty hours per week for six weeks. In addition, both before and throughout the program, all participants will receive opportunities for skill building and training. Participants will be paid $8 an hour for both their work time. Participants are expected to provide their own transportation to both the training and work sites. Eligible participants must be enrolled students in a high school in Davidson County who will complete their Junior year in May 2009 and/or expect to graduate in Spring 2010. Submit application packets to the Nashville Career Advancement Center , 621 Mainstream Drive, Suite 210 , Nashville , TN 37228- 1210 , fax 862-8910. Please contact Ellen Zinkiewicz at ellen.Zinkiewicz@nashville.gov or 862-8890 x77431 with questions. Deadline is 4:00 p.m. on February 6th. Late applications will not be accepted.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES OFFICER
SALARY: $47,340/yr min--$59,820/yr mid-- $72,259/yr max, plus excellent benefits, Under limited supervision, performs responsible administrative & supervisory work in planning, organizing & directing the Franklin Fire Department's emergency medical services program. Work involves organizing & directing the operation of the fire department's emergency medical service. Functions include preparing the EMS annual budget for submission to the Deputy Fire Chief, & coordi¬nating the activities of governmental & non governmental agencies in providing emergency medical services. Work also involves performing personnel administration functions, providing professional development for fire department personnel & monitoring the performance of the emergency medical service program. The Emergency Medical Service Officer reports to the Deputy Fire Chief. AS degree in Fire Science, business management or a related field preferred, & a minimum 5 years of experience in emergency medical services, including supervisory work. EMT - Paramedic by the State of TN & valid TN DL required. Completion of additional course work and/or certification to include, at a minimum, ACLS, PALS, & BTLS, as determined necessary by the Deputy Fire Chief. Must have or be available to work towards obtaining a minimum of a State of TN Commission on Firefighting, or IFSAC or ProBoard as a Fire Officer I, obtain Incident Command levels 100, 200, 300, & 400 & become NIMS 700 & 800 certified. Apply on-line at: www.franklin-gov.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
The Tennessee Fair Housing Council is seeking an administrative assistant. Job duties include answering phones in a professional manner and transferring the callers appropriately, light bookkeeping, management of office supplies, event planning and logistics, coordination of travel and other duties needed. The successful applicant will have relevant experience in a clerical field, a high degree of computer literacy, including experience with Microsoft Office applications and Quickbooks accounting software, and a demonstrated commitment to civil rights and public interest work. For more details and to apply, please visit our web site at http://www.tennfairhousing.org/jobs

FAIR HOUSING SPECIALIST
The Tennessee Fair Housing Council is seeking a fair housing specialist. The fair housing specialist's duties include intake of new fair housing inquiries; operating the Council's fair housing testing ("mystery shopper") program, including recruitment, training and coordination of shoppers; education and outreach; counseling of clients and recordkeeping. The successful applicant will have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience, a high degree of computer literacy and a demonstrated commitment to civil rights and public interest work. For more details and to apply, please visit our web site at http://www.tennfairhousing.org/jobs

STAFF ATTORNEY
The Tennessee Fair Housing Council is seeking a staff attorney to counsel clients and to handle litigation on behalf of the center and its clients under the federal Fair Housing Act, the Tennessee fair housing law and other relevant civil rights statutes. The successful applicant will also be responsible for some education and outreach and other functions of the Council. Graduation from an ABA-accredited law school and current admission to, or eligibility for admission to practice in Tennessee, is required. The successful applicant will also have a demonstrated commitment to civil rights and public interest work. For more details and to apply, please visit our web site at http://www.tennfairhousing.org/jobs

Bilingual Team Lead
$13 an hour, Fast paced growing company in Smyrna has an immediate opening for a key team member who is bilingual (English/Spanish). Computer skills a must (able to run illustrator a plus), basic understanding of mechanical concepts, basic math skills, printing experience a plus, flexibility to work OT as needed, including weekends. Select Staffing, 615-355-4744, 697 President Place, Suite 303, Smyrna TN 37167.

Collections Officer
Southeast Financial Credit Union, $14.90-$18.25 an hour, Manage accounts in all stages of delinquency, repossessions, bankruptcies, legal matters and foreclosures, Contact individual members to discuss options and alternatives, Mails appropriate communications according to established procedures and timelines, report status of collection portfolio to AVP, Collections, on an ongoing basis, Job Requirements: Bilingual (Spanish) skills a plus, Minimum two years financial institution experience or similar, Sound knowledge of bankruptcies and repossessions, Ability to read and understand credit reports, Solution-oriented with strong problem-solving and negotiation skills, Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Fax resume to: 615-465-5565.

Bilingual Order Coordinator
45K + bonus, The Hadden Group, This highly successful and well established international company is looking for someone to manage large orders in a global, fast paced work environment. You must be completely fluent in English/Spanish, well organized with excellent time management skills and be good with numbers/calculations and math in general. Three years longevity in recent office position and bilingual English/Spanish. If you have a minimum of three years experience in an office environment and references that reflect these skills. 102 Woodmont Blvd # 510 Nashville, TN 37205 - (615) 292-2455.

Call Center Supervisor
Asurion [telecommunications, wireless, insurance], Bilingual (Spanish-English) verbal and written skills preferred. College degree preferred or equivalent work related experience, preferred 3 year call center experience, must have working knowledge of coaching and employee development techniques, must be able to multi task, work in fast paced environment and make decisions quickly, must be computer literate with exceptional skills in Microsoft office and call center software. 648 Grassmere Park # 300, Nashville, TN 37211, (615) 837-3000.

Bilingual (Spanish/English) Food Production Lead
Lincoln Tyler Management, Are you looking for an opportunity of a life time? We need an experienced Production Supervisor/Lead formally in a distribution/manufacturing setting to supervise several employees in the process requirements in a food production capacity. The position requires fluency in Spanish and English. Able to be flexible with work schedule, potential for overtime - nights and weekends. Ability to train, coach, counsel employees to maintain the highest levels of performance and meeting strenuous deadlines. Position is located in North Nashville around the Metro Center area. Salary is negotiable based on experience, starting pay is $12-$14 an hour, Minimum 3 years experience in a food manufacturing environment and at least 1 year experience in managing people. High School diploma or GED equivalent. Clean Background and must pass a drug screen. Contact Cindy King, 615-620-4712.

Collections Officer II,
Southeast Financial Credit Union, Manage accounts in all stages of delinquency, repossessions, bankruptcies, legal matters and foreclosures. Minimum two years financial institution experience or similar, Sound knowledge of bankruptcies and repossessions, Ability to read and understand credit reports, Solution-oriented with strong problem-solving and negotiation skills, Excellent written and verbal communication skills, Bilingual (Spanish) skills a plus, Generous vacation and sick leave and leave donation program, Company-paid employee group insurance and company assisted dependent insurance, Tuition reimbursement program, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Attractive 401k contribution match and company-funded cash balance plan, High school diploma required, 2 years related experience required, $14.90 - $18.25 /Hour, 444 James Roberton Parkway, Nashville, TN 37219, fax resume to 615- 465-5565.

Sales Manager
Hallmark Automotive Group (Madison), Our sales managers select and develop their sales consultants, manage the sales process, maintain new and used inventory, and help make product and marketing decisions within the scope of the dealership's business strategy. They are also responsible for delivering world-class customer service. Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus, High school diploma, some college preferred , At least five years in automotive sales, At least two years in sales management , Strong management skills, An excellent track record for building sales, An excellent track record for customer satisfaction. Pay is a weekly draw against commission and ranges from $70,000 to $100,000 per year. Benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, 401k retirement, life insurance, paid time off, short and long-term disability, and a company matching Christmas club. (615) 859-3200.

Store Management
Advanced Auto Parts, Nashville. We are currently looking to fill Store Manager and Assistant Store Manager positions in Nashville. Bilingual English/Spanish a plus, 2-5 years of demonstrated success as retail store manager, strong desire to manage monthly P&L responsibilities, knowledge of building and retaining a strong team, strong planning and organizational skills, high school diploma or GED, strongly recommend ASE certified candidates to apply. Apply for region 33/3312 Surillo, Apply online at http://www.advanceautoparts.com/english/career/join. asp

Administrative Assistant
Kirkland Financial LLC, Nashville-Goodlettsville, Duties related to servicing of mortgage loans, including file organization, sending statements, posting payments, collection calls when needed, Deals with outside agencies, attorneys, real estate agencies, financial institutions, and other vendors in related work. Cross training provided on general bookkeeping, compensation commensurate with skills and experience, benefits include medical, dental, vision and 401K, Requirements: computer literate including Excel and Word, excellent organizational skills and detail oriented, self starter, familiar with real estate documents a plus, knowledge of mortgage servicing software a plus, bilingual a plus. 00 N Main St # D, Goodlettsville, TN 37072, (615) 859-4837.

Sales Associate Program
Aetna, 45K, B.S. or B.A. preferred, but not required, 3.0 GPA or higher, preferred but not required, bilingual preferred but not required, superior communications skills, excellent leadership and interpersonal characteristics, competitive drive, resourceful, ethical, etc. Medical benefits and 401K. To apply go to www.aetna.com/working. Under requisition # select 25133 and submit your resume.

Front Office Person
Person needed for two physician ofc. Computer knowledge a must. Must be able to travel to satellite ofc at least two days a week. Bilingual a plus. Fax resume to 615-320-0449.

Executive Secretary--GC69146 Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Seeking a bilingual secretary for Vanderbilt Biomedical Informatics department. Position requires high school diploma or GED and 60 months of related experience. Bilingual (Spanish and/or Portuguese) individuals are strongly preferred. The successful candidate will possess reliability and competency with large numbers of scheduling details and calendar management for the Chair. Ability to interact effectively with high level executive offices within and outside of Vanderbilt on matters of scheduling, document creation and editing, and exchange of communications on jointly-coordinated projects is essential. In addition, this individual will possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, great customer service skills and strong Microsoft Office skills. As the largest, most well-respected employer in middle Tennessee, we offer an unmatched benefits package including medical, dental, life, disability, AD&D, tuition benefits (employee/spouse/dependent children), retirement plan and more. In addition, you'll enjoy many perks including use of our state-of-the-art exercise facilities, child care and summer camp programs, pet insurance, domestic partner coverage, free bus rides to/from work, discounts on concerts and sporting events, and SO much more! To learn more about this exciting opportunity and to apply, visit www.vanderbilt.jobs and refer to requisition GC69146.

Telephone sales/educational job -SESAC.
Representing the intellectual property rights of songwriter represented by SESAC. SESAC represents songs performed by numerous successful Latin artists such as; Los Rieleros Del Norte (Bill Boards # 1 Regional Mexican song of 2007), Fonseca, Alacranes Musical, Lalo Rodarte, Jenni Rivera, Chayanne, Graciela Beltran, Ricky Martin, Julio Iglesias, Jennifer Lopez, Thalia, Yahir, Gloria Estefan, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Erika Ender, Playa Limbo, Christiana Aguilera, Reik, Daddy Yankee, Marc Anthony, Rey Ruiz, Selena, la Onda. just to name a few. Bill Stevens, 615-963-3520

Clerk & Master
Montgomery County Government. High school diploma (or GED) required, with one to three years of general office and customer service experience. Must have knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel, excellent phone skills and proficient typing skills. Successful candidate must pass a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and criminal background check. $11.17 per hour. General office and critical clerical responsibilities. Maintain accurate records. Assist the public with information requests. Perform other duties as necessary for Chancery Court. freddy.valcarcel@fbct.org

Hilton Garden Inn is looking for workers for housekeeping, front desk and restaurant
Apply at the front desk. Translators are on site to help fill out paperwork. Contact John Lee, Hilton Garden Inn Clarksville, 290 Alfred Thun Rd., Clarksville, TN 37040, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, w: 931.647.1096

Pick-Packer - Grab the Gold
Need an employee that can fill out an I-9. Is available on Thursday at 8:30 am. Does not need to speak English. Job is simple. One current employee can speak some English and can translate if necessary. We may finish at 2 pm or work until 4 pm. We pay $10 per hour (take home - after taxes) for the hours worked that week. At this time, we only work on Thursdays. Call Danielle Ontiveros, 615-715- 0778

Bilingual LPN/RN and Medical Receptionist positions available - Vanderbilt Children's Outpatient Clinic.
The Children's Hospital Outpatient Primary Care Clinic at Vanderbilt is seeking a full time BILINGUAL LPN/RN to provide support to Nurses and Physicians. We are also looking for a Medical Receptionist who will provide excellent customer service to our families. Your fluency in Spanish as well as English, will provide invaluable for interacting with our patients, parents and family members during treatments or patient/family education. Must possess a current Tennessee LPN or RN license. Strongly prefer candidates who can write in Spanish and English and have a desire to work with children. Medical, dental, vision, retirement and tuition assistance provided. Interested applicants e-mail anya.lockert- young@vanderbilt.edu or call 615-343-1011.
Photo by Duane Romanell. Licensed under Creative Commons.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Advanced Placement exam increase among Tennessee's Hispanic high schoolers

"They are sticking it out."

The Greeneville Sun reports here that the number of Hispanic high school students in Tennessee who take at least one Advanced Placement exam has risen 35% since 2007.

The Tennessean quotes one source here who says that the uptick represents a higher mastery of English among those Hispanic students whose native language is Spanish (not all Hispanic students are immigrants or native Spanish-speakers). Overton High School is used as an example:
"In those higher-level classes we have not had that population of bilingual kids, but now we do," she said. "We had 25 Hispanic seniors (at Overton) last year. This year we have 75. This tells you they are sticking it out."
The Tennessean further reported that 14 percent of the overall Metro student population is Hispanic, with the number at 5 percent for the entire state.

Photo by Stephen S. Licensed under Creative Commons.

Friday, February 6, 2009

Still facing cancer, Tim Chavez joins Williamson Herald columnist roster

The Williamson Herald reports here that former Tennessean columnist Tim Chavez has debuted a weekly column at that publication. As of today, a search for Tim Chavez at the Herald leads to three columns posted so far, under the title "The People's House."

Chavez lost his job at the Tennessean in 2007 due to a bout with leukemia. He subsequently returned to writing at his own blog Political Salsa.

Chavez had announced the upcoming move to the Williamson Herald last month, with hopes to be expanding to five regional papers. The announcement comes as a reversal of sorts, since Chavez had said in December that he was leaving town.

As for the leukemia, Chavez reported as recently as this past Monday that he sees "great risk" of quick death due to recent developments. He writes at his blog that if he could have given a final message to his former readers at the Tennessean before his departure in 2007, this would be it.

Image: Williamson Herald

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Education info at Vol State's free Hispanic Family Night February 10

Update 2/15/09: The Tennessean reported here from this event

From Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin:
Education is the focus for Vol State Hispanic Family Night

Education is important, but going through the college application process can be complicated. Volunteer State Community College has an event that can help. Hispanic Family Night will have information about everything from basic English classes, to college level courses and degree programs. It will be held on February 10. It is free and open to everyone.

“Hispanic Family Night really is for the whole family,” said Eric Melcher, Communications Coordinator at Vol State. “Many adults are interested in English classes or returning to school, and teenagers are just getting ready for college. We’ll have counselors who can speak to people in Spanish and English, to better answer any questions they might have.”

“No matter what skill level people have in English this event can help,” said Terry Bubb, the Director of the Advising Center. “Sumner County Adult Education will have information about basic English classes and their GED program. Vol State folks can talk about our advanced level English classes and how to prepare for college.”

Volunteer State has many support services available for students, including the award-winning NewSkills Center, which provides help with math, reading and writing. The Language Center has resources for people who speak foreign languages, including Rosetta Stone software. The TRIO Student Support Services program has a wide array of help for first-generation college students, those with low family incomes, or those with certain disabilities.

Refreshments will be served. There will also be movies and fun to keep the kids entertained, so parents can have time to ask questions. Everyone is invited to attend. The Hispanic Family Education Night will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and people can stop by whenever it’s convenient. It will be held on Tuesday, February 10 at the Thigpen Library on the Vol State campus at 1480 Nashville Pike in Gallatin. For more information call 615-230-3570 or in Spanish 615-230-4846.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Latin Market Communications' rescheduled networking event at Sambuca tonight

Jan 28 meeting was cancelled for weather

From Latin Market Communications:
Networking Night this Wedns. Feb. 4

You're Invited!

Hi, this is Eva Melo. Please join Latin Market Communications and State Farm for a special night of networking at the Sambuca Restaurant in Nashville on Wednesday FEB 4th from 5:00-7PM. Hors d'oeuvres provided and cash bar for drinks. Thanks to State Farm there is no charge for this event. Please bring your business cards and come socialize with us.

Many people have called asking what this is all about. Networking is the best way to build your business, build alliances, find volunteers, find customers, find political supporters, find employment, meet new people, etc. Whatever you reason, we welcome you.

RSVP

If you already RSVPd last week you do not need to RSVP again. Just let us know if you previously said you would attend but cannot. We must limit the attendance to the first 150 people who RSVP so we don't have a problem with fire codes. Send replies to eva@latinmarketcommunications.com

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

German-language press is part of historic Nashville

The Tennessee State Newspaper

While it claimed to be "The Only German Daily and Weekly in City and State," the Tennessee Staatszeitung (literally translated, the "Tennessee State Newspaper") was just one of many German-language newspapers in Nashville and Tennessee less than a century and a half ago.

The Staatszeitung's competitors included the Südliches Post-Journal (Memphis), the German Gazette, the Cumberland Blätter (1863), the Nashviller Journal (1865), the Nashviller Demokrat (1866), the Tennessee Tägliche (1866), Der Emigrant und Beobachter im Süden (1871), and the Tennessee Post (1873).

The Tennessee Staatszeitung's claim to fame - being the only German paper in the state with both a daily and weekly edition - was soon lost, or at least shared, when the Nashville Demokrat launched a weekly edition called the Wöchentlicher Nashviller Demokrat.

German-language newspapers were hailed as vital to that immigrant community's assimilation, at least in this speech given on German-American Day at the Exposition launching Nashville's Centennial Park in 1897. The speech was picked up by the New York Times and is excerpted here.

The Hispanic Nashville Notebook will be posting additional information about the Staatszeitung and Nashville's German community over the next few weeks, thanks to the research conducted by Robert Donald Rogers in his 1975 dissertation The Tennessee Staatszeitung.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Gregg Ramos is Nashvillian of the Year

"Works tirelessly to make Nashville a better place for people of all races and backgrounds"

The Nashville Scene named Gregg Ramos its "Nashvillian of the Year" in a recent cover story.

The story mentions Ramos' part in the winning campaign against the "English only" charter amendment proposal, but authors Melissa Wozniak and Jim Ridley say that the honor goes beyond that:
Nor does Ramos get the nod because he's the single spokesperson for a monolithic bloc—"the face of Hispanic Nashville," or some such nonsense. Latinos make up a large segment of Nashville's population, to be sure, and growing every year. But within that "community" are factions and fractures along countless lines. Even on an issue as galvanizing as English Only, there has been disagreement among Hispanic Nashvillians over how best to oppose it, according to Nashville Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Yuri Cunza—who says he himself has respectfully butted heads with Ramos over tactical matters.

Indeed, what makes Ramos our Nashvillian of the Year—and ironically something of a representative, however reluctantly—is what he brings to the city as an individual. The son of a Mexican immigrant, Ramos works tirelessly to make Nashville a better place for people of all races and backgrounds—whether through active participation in nonprofits as wide-ranging as United Way and the Tennessee Justice Center, or as recent board president of Catholic Charities, the humanitarian organization that helps everyone from senior citizens to immigrant newcomers, regardless of nationality.

His story makes him doubly compelling, as a man and as one single, solitary, specific member of a group frequently demonized en masse. Gregg Ramos, as you will find, is just your average baseball-loving, country-music-playing fluent English speaker—more fluent, in fact, than some English Only proponents we could name. He has woven himself into the American tapestry, so much so that Ramos, whose father initially spoke no English, has raised two college-educated children who speak little Spanish—a fact he admits with regret.
Image: Nashville Scene
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