RESOLUTION NO. RS2000-157

A resolution recognizing James "Nick" Nixon and Shannon "Bayou" Williford for introducing the Blues in the Schools program to the Metropolitan Davidson County Schools.

WHEREAS, Music City Blues is an educational organization formed in February 1992, to help keep blues music alive; and

WHEREAS, three years ago, James Nixon and Shannon Williford joined forces to put together a program to educate children about blues music; and

WHEREAS, educators, James "Nick" Nixon and Shannon "Bayou" Williford were recognized by The Blues Foundation as recipients of the Keeping the Blues Alive Award in education for the year 2000, an international recognition of excellence for significant contributions to promote, preserve and advance the culture and traditions of blues music, and its unique place in America's heritage; and

WHEREAS, the Music City Blues' Blues in the Schools program has presented over 200 educational workshops to over 17,000 students emphasizing on the origin, history of blues music, and blues artists; and

WHEREAS, through the Blues in the Schools program students are introduced to rhythm instruments, such as the harmonica, and singing that help them develop an appreciation of different blues musical styles and the influence of this music in American culture; and

WHEREAS, James and Shannon have recorded Nick and Bayou Blues, which includes many classics they use in their award-winning blues education workshops; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council recognizing James Nixon and Shannon Williford for introducing the Blues in the Schools program to students throughout our community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

SECTION 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as recognizing James "Nick" Nixon and Shannon "Bayou" Williford for introducing the Blues in the Schools program to the Metropolitan Davidson County Schools.

SECTION 2. The Metropolitan Council Staff is directed to prepare a certificate to be presented to James Nixon and Shannon Williford for this honor.

SECTION 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Melvin Black

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Rules & Confirmations Committee
Introduced:	March 7, 2000
Adopted:	March 7, 2000
Approved:	March 9, 2000
By: