The IRS has free tax forms and publications on a wide variety of topics. If you need IRS forms or information, try one of these easy options:

• Internet: You can access forms and publications on the IRS website 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at IRS.gov.
• Phone: Call 1-800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) to order current year forms, instructions and publications and prior year forms and instructions. You should receive your order within 10 days.
• Locations in your community: During the tax-filing season, many libraries and post offices offer free tax forms to taxpayers. Some libraries also have copies of commonly-requested publications, including the Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library. Braille materials may also be available. Many large grocery stores, copy centers, and office supply stores have forms you can photocopy or print from a CD.
• Mail: Order your tax forms and publications from the National Distribution Center, P.O. Box 8903, Bloomington, IL, 61702-8903. You should receive your products 10 days after receipt of your order.

With more than 40 elected positions up for grabs this forum hopes to get more people interested in running for public office by providing a basic education of how does one become a candidate, the basics of running a campaign, the effectiveness of using social networks like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, or any of their favorite social network tools and much more.

During the last election season technology was heavy used by all sides of the political spectrum, and was was highly successful in energizing and recruiting younger voters. The objective of the forum is to achieve the same thing.

I did have concerns that the book could be dreadfully boring. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how Vanderbilt kept my interest; I couldn’t put the book down. He does a stunning job of reducing decades of research into a 286 page book.

The book is not just on traffic congestion. It discusses at length issues of engineering, driver psychology, and traffic issues world wide. Instead of summarizing what the book is about, it may be better to list some of the questions/topics addressed by Vanderbilt:

• Does everyone going slower gets us all there faster?
• Would roads be safer without street signs?
• Why are Pintos are less likely to honk at BMW’s? Why are convertibles are less likely to honk at Pintos?
• Why do studies show that bicyclists are safer when they do not wear helmets and avoid bicycle lanes?
• Why we would be safer if roads were be engineered to make us feel unsafe?

One fascinating topic that Vanderbilt tackles is traffic in India. See the following youtube video

Click here to view the embedded video.

How can this be organized? Is this safer than our streets? You will have to read the book.

The New York Times Book Review said this book should be required reading for all drivers. I totally agree. It was very interesting and educational. This book is NOT available at the Clarksville/Montgomery County Public Library. I purchased from a local bookstore for $16.00. I have seen copies as low as $11.00 at Amazon.com.

Now, if I could only somehow get a discount on my car insurance for being a better informed driver… or just get every other Clarksville to Nashville commuter to go out and read this book.

Resources

• http://www.howwedrive.com/
• http://www.amazon.com/Traffic-Drive-What-Says-About/dp/0307264785

The book is reminiscent of Quirkology by Richard Wiseman. Like Quirkology, it is full of odd and interesting science experiments, such as – Why is an experiment with 4 year old child and a single marshmallow, the most accurate indicator of what that child’s IQ will be when they are 18? Except where Quirkology is mostly a collection of various odd scientific studies , Lehrer pinpoints studies done on how the brain makes decisions.

I like reading atheist literature, like Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris. The basis of their arguments are set in the concrete foundation of logic and reason. Indeed, the USA and its Constitution, and legal system were borne from the Age of Enlightenment. Common thought is that if we only apply logic and reason to all known facts involved in a particular decision, we will always make the best choice.  Just the Facts as Joe Friday would say. But what about hunches and gut feelings. Where does that hunch or feeling come from?

It bubbles up from your unconscious brain; your emotions. When make a decision, the emotion section of our brain fires milliseconds before the logically section fires. The logical section of the brain acts like a lawyer, quickly gathering facts and data which justify the decision made by the emotional section. The logical section actively ignores data and facts that contradict the emotional section. Interesting, isn’t it.

One of the more interesting experiments described by Lehrer goes like this. Participants were given a sum of money. Four decks of cards were placed in front of them. Each card had a positive reward (+$100) or a negative reward (-$100). The participants were told to flip cards over from any of the four decks, and try to end up with more money than when they started. What the participants did not know, was that two of the decks contained more favorable cards and less unfavorable cards (such as +$500 and -$50). The other two decks contained more unfavorable cards and less favorable cards (such as +$50 and -$500.)

On average, the participants realized the decks were “stacked” after flipping 80 cards. Analyzing each participants choices, scientists discovered a an interesting pattern.  Participants started selecting more cards from the favorable piles, than the unfavorable cards after 50 cards were flipped. This indicates that the participants unconsciously recognized the decks were stacked much earlier than they consciously realized. The participants were also hooked up to sensors that detected pulse rate changes and minute sweating. Pulse rate changes and sweating are attributed to emotions/gut feelings/hunches, (think lie detector test.) The pulse rates and sweat glands started working after the participant had flipped only 10 cards. So the participants gut noticed the decks were stacked at 10 cards; the sub-conscience recognized it at 50 cards; and the participant consciously realized the difference at 80 cards. In theory, the experiment shows that a participant’s gut noticed something was awry 8x times faster than the logical part of the participant’s brain.

Lehrer goes on to show that when we over think, we make mistakes; when we do not think at all, we make mistakes; and most importantly  – when we are the most certain, we are also most likely to be wrong. The Chapter on Moral Decisions was eye-opening.

But all is not lost. Lehrer takes the information gathered by science, and shines the light  on how to improve our decision making process. Such as spend time thinking about how you think. If you think something is right, spend time trying to think how you could be wrong. If you are a conservative, read some liberal literature. If you are liberal, listen to right-wing talk radio. Creating a dialogue in your mind will make you wiser. He suggested we actively eavesdrop on our internal dialogue.

So far, this is the best book I have read this year. Friends of mine also highly suggest “Predictable Irrational” by Dan Ariely, which is along the same lines, but aims at the fundamental flaw in economic theory, that individuals always act rationally.

“How We Decide”  by Jonah Lehrer is available at the Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library on the second floor (153.83 Leh.)

Over the past six years I have been blessed and fortunate to work with so many local non profit providers in our Community. It was through these relationships, collaborations and partnerships that I came to realize first hand how volunteering and community service makes such a difference in the lives of individuals and families right in our own community. Volunteers make Clarksville a better place!

What I know for sure is that working together cultivates even greater community support, stewardship, lasting relationships and long lasting partnerships and these are the essential elements for building strong, healthy and viable communities.

President Obama said that the challenges we face are unprecedented, and  this is the time for all of us to build a new foundation for economic growth in our country. We have seen over the past several months new investments by the administration in our country, but government can not do do everything alone. Our recovery is about working together right here in our own community doing what we can to help, rebuilding our country one community at a time.

We have what it takes! Every community has riches beyond belief –these riches are the citizens who live here. We all have gifts and talents to share, but how do we reach volunteers with diverse demographics, abilities and community representation? How can we open the door a little wider to service in our own community?  I know that there are many individuals and community groups out there that want to volunteer their time and expertise in the community in a variety of ways. Imagine what Clarksville would be like if we could harness that powerful spirit of volunteerism in our community.

You are invited to an “Idea Exchange” about developing a formal volunteer program called GoClarksvilleTNVolunteer!  The meeting will be held at the Clarksville Montgomery County Library, 350 Pageant Lane in the small meeting room on July 9, 2009 at 10:00 am. Please RSVP by e-mail or you may reach me at 615-504-0285.

I look forward to seeing you on July 9th.

Sincerely,
Rita Arancibia

GoClarksvilleTNVolunteer Overview

Volunteerism inspires us and has the potential to change our world one community at a time!

GoClarksvilleTNVolunteeer will function as a volunteer network to connect individuals, groups, government and local businesses in Clarksville.

• GoClarksvilleTNVolunteer builds capacity for effective volunteering through non profit support, resources and professional training opportunities.
• GoClarksvilleTNVolunteer promotes and celebrates Volunteerism in our Community
• GoClarksvilleTNVolunteer particpates in strategic partnership initiatives to mobilized volunteers to strengthen our community.

Clarksville is home to many PEOPLE- and there are many needs and opportunities for all of us to pitch in and help make Clarksville stronger and more connected.

• People bring diverse talents, perspectives and contributions to our community. Each person has opportunities to enrich the lives of others in our community and their own lives through volunteerism.
• Involvement – volunteering provides opportunities for personal growth through sharing skills, interests and talents.
• Community – collaboration and cooperation between individuals and organizations are the basis for a stronger and more productive community.

Ideas for program

• A searchable volunteer opportunities, wish list database and volunteer calendar
• Weekly Volunteer Opportunities Update
• Training and networking for volunteer managers
• Volunteer networking group for Volunteer Program Staff
• Online resources for Volunteer Managers and Volunteers
• Newsletter
• Annual Community Volunteer Recognition Program
• Annual Community Volunteer Connect Event

Website: http://www.GoClarksvilleTNVolunteer.com/

Citizen participation is essential to the City’s involvement in the Federal Department of Housing & Urban Development’s (HUD) Programs. The Action Plan serves as the planning document for addressing overall community development and housing needs that will utilize the City’s anticipated $ 800,000 entitlement of CDBG funding, $ 215,046 CDBG-R in addition to $ 425,00 of HOME Investment Partnership funds available to the City for 2009. Projects selected to receive this funding will be included in the Action Plan.
All citizens and organizations are invited to attend the public hearing to comment orally or in writing on the FY 2009 Action Plan. The City of Clarksville will make reasonable accommodations and services necessary for sensory-impaired and disabled citizens at the public meeting. Additionally, translation services may be offered upon request and availability. Persons requiring such accommodations/services should contact the Office of Housing and Community Development at (931) 648-6133 at least three working days in advance of the meeting.

Copies of the Action Plan will be available at the Office of Housing and Community Development, One Public Square, Suite 201, Clarksville, Tennessee between the hours of  8:00 AM and 4:30  PM, Monday through Friday, and at the reference desk at the Clarksville Montgomery County Public Library for a 30 day public comment and review period which begins March 25, 2009.

The Action Plan will also be posted on the City website at www.cityofclarksville.com on this date. Written comments may be mailed to Office of  Housing and Community Development, One Public Square, Suite 201, Clarksville, TN 37040. Comments may also be submitted by calling (931) 648-6133. Comments are welcomed prior to the start of the review period, but all comments should be received no later than 12:00 Noon on Friday, April 24, 2009, to be considered.

A reception honoring the young artists will be held March 8 at the  Clarksville Montgomery County Public Library, where their art will be displayed.

The art teachers invite the public to attend this free event.  The exhibit starts this Friday and runs through April 3. An opening reception on Sunday, March 8, will run from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Many low-income homeowners who have lived in their home for years desperately need home repairs but are unable to afford the expense.  Having decent housing- the comfort of a sound livable home equates to peace of mind and helps revitalize neighborhoods.
Annually the City partners with local faith based organizations to help revitalize and repair homes for low-moderate income residents.  The repairs are funded with grant money from the City’s Community Development Block Grant provided through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the labor is donated. Volunteers work in crews to repair homes of seniors, disabled and low income households. The repairs include roof replacements; exterior power washing painting, ramps, porch repairs and yard clean up.

In the past two years the City’s Good Neighbor Volunteer Home Repair Program has assisted more than 25 families.  This year the City is pleased to have two faith-based organizations generously donating expertise and time to help local residents.   Through a one-week program sponsored by the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention and the Clarksville Baptist Association more than 250 volunteers will help repair and revitalize homes in the City’s special emphasis neighborhoods.  World Changer Volunteers will be in Clarksville from June 27-July 4, 2009. On September 26, 2009, Grace Community Church, a local congregation will organize over 1000 volunteers to assist homeowners with limited resources by providing fresh coats of paint, roof repairs and critical home improvements. The group will also provide assistance to local non profits and some renters.

These are great programs that improve the quality of life in our community by repairing and redeveloping housing units. In exchange for building materials and coordination from the Office of Housing and Community Development, these faith groups contribute the necessary labor and invaluable skills. It is the best way to bring together volunteers and public resources to make the most of our funding and invest in our neighborhoods.

Eligible applicants must have owned their home for at least one year, be low-moderate income based on federal guidelines, and reside in the home that is to be repaired. In addition, all city and county property taxes must be paid through December 2008. Homeowners who received assistance in 2008 are not eligible for this year’s program. Renters must have a lease and the landlord must sign an agreement to allow the work to be performed.

For more information contact the City of Clarksville Office of Housing and Community Development (931) 648-6133 Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00-4:30 p.m.  Applications are available on the City’s website www.cityofclarksville.com, Clarksville Montgomery County Public Library and at City Hall, One Public Square, Suite 201.

The purpose of this meeting is to solicit comments in regard to the development of the Annual Action Plan for the current Five-Year Consolidated Plan which focuses primarily on housing choice and opportunities for low -moderate income citizens in the City of Clarksville. The overriding goals of the plan include: creation of a suitable living environment; provision of safe decent housing and the expansion of economic opportunities.

The City of Clarksville expects to receive approximately $ 750,000 Community Development Block Grant Funds and $ 425,000 in HOME Investment Partnership Funds. Funds may be used for a wide variety of housing and community development activities including provisions of assistance to the homeless and various activities to improve the quality of life for low-moderate income persons. The funds will be available in July 2009.

These hearings are accessible to persons with disabilities. Persons requiring reasonable accommodations, including sign language interpreters, Assistive Listening Devices, print materials in alternate formats should contact the Office of Housing and Community Development at 931-648-6133 at least 72 hours prior to the public hearing. If you need language translation services please also call Rita Arancibia, Director at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

The City of Clarksville Office of Housing and Community Development and the Housing and Community Development Citizens’ Advisory Committee invite interested parties to attend a community hearing on Thursday, January 29 at 6:00 pm. in the large meeting room located at the Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library, 350 Pageant Lane.

The purpose of this meeting is to solicit comments in regard to the development of the 2009-2010 Annual Action Plan for the current Five-Year Consolidated Plan which focuses primarily on housing choice and opportunities for low -moderate income citizens in the City of Clarksville. The overriding goals of the plan include the creation of a suitable living environment, provision of safe decent housing, and the expansion of economic opportunities.

Clarksville expects to receive approximately $ 750,000 Community Development Block Grant Funds and $ 425,000 in HOME Investment Partnership Funds. Funds may be used for a wide variety of housing and community development activities including provisions of assistance to the homeless and various activities to improve the quality of life for low-moderate income persons. The funds will be available in July 2009.

These hearings are accessible to persons with disabilities. Persons requiring reasonable accommodations, including sign language interpreters, Assistive Listening Devices, print materials in alternate formats should contact the Office of Housing and Community Development at 931-648-6133 at least 72 hours prior to the public hearing. If you need language translation services please also call Rita Arancibia, Director at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.