[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 21, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E865]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE WHITLAND AVENUE NEIGHBORS IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM COOPER

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 21, 2017

  Mr. COOPER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Whitland Avenue 
neighbors. The Whitland area is one of the most historic--and 
beautiful--neighborhoods in Middle Tennessee.
  Built in the earliest days of the 20th century, this relatively small 
neighborhood has more historical markers than any other in Davidson 
County.
  In 1976, residents vowed to hold an annual party on the Fourth of 
July to celebrate our nation's birthday and keep our patriotic spirit 
alive. The celebration was conceived to include a number of timeless 
activities such as a bicycle parade for neighbors of all ages; 
performances of patriotic tunes by a band of local musicians; 
enthusiastic singing by all in attendance; a dramatic reading of the 
Declaration of Independence; recognition of veterans for their service; 
speeches by elected officials and other local dignitaries; and a 
covered dish picnic lunch.
  The Whitland Avenue Fourth of July Celebration has become one of 
Nashville's most festive events. The neighborhood invites the entire 
city to join in a family-friendly parade and gathering to celebrate our 
great nation. The neighbors start planning months in advance, and each 
year's event is bigger and better than the last.
  On July 4, 2017, the neighbors at Whitland Avenue will celebrate the 
40th Anniversary of this beloved event. It is an honor to recognize the 
community, their spirit, and their patriotism. Whitland Avenue is the 
heart of Nashville, and I hope the community spirit lives on for 
generations to come.

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