After six-months on-the-job as head of the Stones River Battlefield, Gayle Hazelwood has set a goal of getting local people involved in this city's top tourist attraction.

She told the Murfreesboro Rotary Club that only eleven of the 80-plus members of the Friends of the Battlefield live in Rutherford County, some active members commute from nearby states.

She said, "Preserving local history is by far our number one priority. However, we need to include space and activities that promote visitors having a place to walk, run and ride bicycles, get families together--all while being surrounded by history."

When asked what type of person is the ideal Friends of the Battlefield member, Hazelwood responded . . .

In her Tuesday message to the noon Rotary group, she said,  “Stones River Battlefield is a great park with a rich history and tremendous community support.  I was 20 years old before I had any knowledge of the National Park Service.  I want to do all I can to make sure that does not happen to today's young generation.  All children, young and old, should have first hand knowledge and experience with their National Parks.”

Hazelwood is no newcomer to the National Park Service. With thirty-years experience under her belt, the energetic ray of sunshine came here after serving 3-years as the southeast's deputy regional director. Earlier assignments took her to Ohio, Atlanta, New Orleans, and Washington, DC.

For more information on how you can help the Stones River National Battlefield, phone (615) 893-9501 or visit their website http://www.nps.gov/stri/index.htm.