Up with People Tickets Now Available

The world-famous "Up with People" troupe is coming to LaVergne, Smyrna & Nashville! Following a week of volunteer work (they are helping to build a playground at Wherry Housing on Weakly Road in Smyrna), they will be performing two concerts at Opryland's Acuff Theatre. I have tickets available for the 3:00 p.m. and the 7:30 p.m. concerts. Tickets are $50 VIP and $20 general admission. All proceeds will go to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital.

My family will be hosting at least one "Up with People" student. I'm a little bit nervous, but I think it will be a fantastic opportunity for my daughters to meet with people from other cultures and countries. Here's what the "official" word from the Up with People website says:

"Through travel and cultural immersion, Up with People has provided students with a renowned international education and an unmatched passageway to see the world. And we've been doing it for four decades.

"As the world has changed, so too has the Up with People program. Once primarily impacting communities through its musical productions, the current Up with People program addresses the very real need for young adults and leaders who have global perspectives, intercultural understanding, knowledge of worldwide social issues, leadership skills and a dedication to community service. Today, through its distinct 22-week program, Up with People students experience personal growth, leadership training, service learning and performing arts as they travel through three continents. For many students, it's a global education that lasts a lifetime; for others, it's a life-transforming experience."

So if you're looking for something fun to do on St. Patrick's Day, give me at shout at 491-2161 to buy tickets for Up with People! It's for a great cause!

Host Families Needed

My company is sponsoring Up with People, an organization that offers young adults the opportunity to experience the different people, countries and cultures of the world firsthand while connecting with local communities in a meaningful and impactful way. From across the world, about 50 young adults ranging in age from 18 to 29 are coming to Smyrna and Nashville March 12-19 and will be working at the Wherry Housing on Weakly Lane. We desperately need host families to give them a place to stay, provide meals, and drive to the worksite.

Two Up with People concerts will also be held and host families will receive free tickets. If you are interested in hosting please contact Kathy Tyson at 491-2161 or Butch Roth at 477-8483. Please help - maybe your own children or you will be inspired to be a part of this international phenomenon.