NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — They say laughter is the best medicine... and for a local non-profit... that "medicine" is money! We learned today a big fundraiser at Zanies last night — “Groceries with Dignity & Comedy Without” — netted a whopping $200,000 for "The Store."
Country star Brad Paisley and his wife, actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley founded the market near Belmont University in 2020. It allows low-income neighbors in Davidson County a place to shop for the basics -- all for free. The focus is to protect their dignity... while also providing hope.
I had the chance to tour the operation last year when the non-profit received a portion of proceeds from the Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival. Since then, the need is even greater... which is why last night's sold-out comedy show was so important. Brad himself was on hand, along with popular comedians John Crist and Dusty Slay. Obviously it was a win-win — with the crowd enjoying a lot of laughs — while helping such an important cause.
You can learn more about The Store and how to get assistance on The Store's website.

Here’s a story offering a great example of how a common cause, and a little creativity, can “intersect” to improve quality of life. Our South Nashville reporter Patsy Montesinos shares how some neighbors decided to take action, following the tragic death of a 77-year-old in a hit-and-run along Antioch Pike earlier this year. See how they used “tactical urbanism” to make the area a little safer for all.
- Rhori Johnston