The comet. (Johnson City, Tenn.) 1884-1916, 1909-10-07
HOPEFUL
SIGN FOR
THE STATE
GOVERNORS
VIEW OF
NORMAL ENTHUSIASM
State Board VIII Visit Murfreesbo-
70 Today, Where Great Re-
ception Will Be Given.

The unusual interest observed since
the normal school idea became an inte-
grail part of the public school system,
is taken by men converSant with the
conditions to mean that great upward
movement for higher and better educa-
ton, is going forward in Tennessee.
Reports of the visits of the state board
of education, to points offering sites for
normal schools, bear out this conclu-
sion. Several days ago Gov. Patterson,
in speaking with some friends, declared
that this enthusiasm means well for
the people Of Tennessee, and it was he
who first pointed out that some great
good must follow.
Last week the board resumed its
itinerary in East Tennessee, visiting
Athens and Dayton AT these points
the receptions were most flattering. At
Winchester and Tullahoma last Satur-
day the same spirit was manifested.
Reports from Murfrees boro, Columbia
and other Middle Tennessee points to
be visited by the board this week, are
that great preparations are being made
showing conclusively that the friendly
rivalry does not overshadow the real
spirit
The receptions Of last week impressed
upon Gov. Patterson more firmly than
ever the thought which he brought out
early in the normal school campaign.
In reviewing the situation with a
friend yesterday the governor compli-
mented the work in fiattering terms,
Though he expressed himself as being
deeply sensible of the many kindnesses
and courtesies which were rendered
him by friends, admirers and Tennes-
scans, yet he saw beyond it, and pass
ing over it, concluded that personality
had its share, but not the lions share.
"Personally, I've been treated with
the greatest kindness and conSidera-
tion,n he said, ''rhe receptions every
state board of education heartily ap-
preciates it all. A great deal of en-
thusasm has been observed; certainly
this means well for the great cause
of education in Tennessee. | think it
is most hopeful sign for the state and
for its people.
AT Murfresboro this morning it is
expected that 5000 people will greet
the state board of education. Every
toll road leading into Murfresboro has
been thrown open to all, with the view
of having Rutherford county repre-
sent I'd at the reception. At Columbia
a big barbecue will be given in honor
of the board, Several Middle TenneS
see towns will try to initiate the royal
reception given Friday at Dayton.
Yesterday, when speaking of the
tour and its benefits, its enthusiasm
and what it is worth to the cause of
education, the governor would fire.
quently revert to the kind Of reception
he received at Dayton. The beautiful
floral design, representing handsome
normal school building, which was
presented him, will be brought to
Nashville, and will! be presented TO
Mrs. Patterson. 1t remains to be seen
what the West Tennessee towns will
do. However, the reports are that the
normal school idea will be enthusias-
tically presented. There will be no
further Interruptions in the itinerary of
the state board; the work will be
completed Oct, l4.--Nashville Ameri-
can.