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Governor and First Lady Host "Tennessee Season to Remember"

Families From Across State Attend Fifth Annual Memorial Event

12/6/2007

Governor Phil Bredesen and First Lady Andrea Conte hosted families from across Tennesseethis evening for "A Tennessee Season to Remember," an annual holiday memorial event to honor Tennesseans who have lost their lives to violent crimes.

"The devastation of losing a family member to violent crime can become even more difficult to bear during the holidays," Conte said. "'Tennessee Season to Remember' is one way for families to seek healing and fellowship by coming together in remembrance of the people they love, and in celebration of the lives they led."

The families gathered in the Tennessee House Chambers to hear the names of their loved ones read as they hung ornaments on two memorial wreaths. The wreaths will be on display in the Capitol throughout the holiday season.

"Over the next couple of weeks, as these wreaths adorn the doors and walls of this building -- as the business of the State of Tennesseegoes on -- I want all of you to know that these ornaments will speak to those who walk these halls," said Bredesen.

In addition to the individual Tennesseans gathering to remember their loved ones, representatives from Tennessee's Judicial Districts hung ornaments in remembrance of the victims they have represented, and law enforcement officials paid special homage to comrades from across the state killed this year in the line of service. The Fisk Jubilee Singers also provided a musical performance in memoriam of victims of violent crime.

"A Season to Remember" was first organized by individuals in DavidsonCountyas a holiday memorial for the surviving family members of victims of homicide. When Bredesen was mayor of Nashville, the event was moved from the Metro Court House to CentennialParkto accommodate the large crowds. In November 2003, Bredesen and Conte established a statewide "Tennessee Season to Remember," inviting families from across the state to join them at the Capitol for the event.