NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's one of the most controversial and highly debated topics: when is it appropriate to start decorating for Christmas?
Holiday LIGHTS is a popular attraction at Cheekwood, and it's a process that is planned out several months in advance.
The holiday decorations are a big attraction at Cheekwood this year, and it's a process that is planned out months and months in advance. This year's display features the work of former White House florist Laura Dowling.
Dowling was the Chief Floral Designer from 2009 to 2015 during the Obama Administration. All of the different spaces inside the mansion have their own different look, feel and inspiration. Dowling said like during her time at The White House, she particularly enjoys working with volunteers for various projects.
"For me, what I took away from that experience especially was the value of working with volunteers," Dowling said. "And how much the handmade projects could contribute to the warmth and the overall effect of the display."
The 10th annual Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood runs until Jan. 5.
Dowling has also been holding lectures and events with the public, with more to come throughout the weekend. To learn more, click here.
This story by Aaron Cantrell reminds me of my first school in Dyersburg, TN. I was a student at Bruce School from Kindergarten to second grade until the school system was integrated. My parents graduated from this K-12 school in 1960 in one of the city's African American communities. After sitting empty for several years, part of the school was demolished while the rest was renovated and now serves as a community center for the Bruce community in Dyersburg. A local pastor is now trying to do something similar in the Cemetery community in Rutherford Co.
-Lelan Statom
