During the announcement period on Dec. 16 the Metropolitan Council promoted several community initiatives and seasonal events.

The chair asked council members and staff to join Vice Mayor Henderson on Saturday at 10 a.m. to deliver holiday gifts to nearly 100 residents at a local nursing and rehabilitation center; volunteers will assemble gifts Friday at 5:30 p.m. in the council office. The chair encouraged festive attire and asked volunteers to wear masks.

Council member Bradford said Metro Animal Care & Control is partnering with Williamson, Murray and Cheatham counties on a "Silent Night" initiative to try to empty the shelter by Dec. 24; adoption fees are $25 through Dec. 23 and holiday foster placements are being accepted. Council member Webb promoted the Nashville Fire Departments fundraising calendar (nashvillefirecalendar.com). Council member Coopin announced the Preds Jewish Night (7 p.m.) and distributed a solidarity pin in response to a recent incident in Australia; Coopin encouraged colleagues to wear the pin in support of the Jewish community.

Council member Vaux and others announced a community toy drive (drop-off through Dec. 17) and a Kwanzaa celebration at the Pruitt Library on Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. The chair closed the announcement period with holiday greetings and a land acknowledgment naming the Cherokee, Shawnee and Yuchi peoples before adjourning.