RECOGNIZING THE BETHLEHEM CENTERS OF NASHVILLE
AS ONE OF THE TOP RATED CHILD CARE CENTERS IN THE COUNTRY

July 26, 2006

Mr. Speaker, today I wish to recognize Bethlehem Centers of Nashville and express my heartfelt congratulations on their fourth year to receive a three-star rating from Tennessee Department of Human Services for their child care services.

Founded in 1894 as the United Methodist Neighborhood Centers, today the Bethlehem Centers of Nashville serve thousands of children, young adults, adult women and senior citizens in the North Nashville and downtown neighborhoods. Bethlehem Centers provide a variety of services designed to support individuals regardless of their economic background.

With the goal of helping individuals toward becoming strong, independent and contributing members of their family and community, Bethlehem Centers provide Nashvillians with life skills training, tutoring, nutrition counseling, senior outreach programs, business and career training, GED preparation, mentoring, and even daily hot lunches.

In addition to these community programs, Bethlehem Centers have earned a three-star rating for their high quality child care services from the Tennessee Department of Human Services. This is their fourth year to receive the highest rating awarded by the State and to be placed among the top rated child care centers in the Nation.

I am proud to send my heartiest congratulations to Bethlehem Centers' Joyce Searcy and all the dedicated staff members who have committed themselves to bettering Nashville's communities.

I join with everyone in Tennessee's Fifth District in applauding the Bethlehem Centers of Nashville for all that they do for the community and I commend everyone at Bethlehem Centers of Nashville who make it a special place to learn, play and grow.

_________________________
Jim Cooper
Member of Congress