Friday, September 30, 2005

October 1 Kicks Off Banned Book Week

Tip of the hat to Bigorangemichael. October 1 kicks off banned book week so be sure to stop by the Smyrna, TN library to pick up your copy of a formerly banned book.

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Local Blogger To Be Guest Blogger This Weekend on Nashville Is Talking

Congrats to BadBadIvy for her spot as guest blogger this weekend on Nashvilleistalking.com. I'll be certain to check in.

Don't forget - I'm trying to form a blogger's/podcaster's group. And if you are interested in becoming a guest blogger, let me know.

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Thursday, September 29, 2005

Have Rutherford County Schools Gone A Little Too Far?

Or have they gone far enough?

Weigh in on the topic of whether a substitute teacher in the Rutherford County School System should have been fired for using the words "heathen" and "butthead". Now you know, behind the firing, of course, was some over protective parent pushing for this... or at least I suspect.

Don't forget - I'm trying to form a blogger's/podcaster's group. And if you are interested in becoming a guest blogger, let me know.

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Wednesday, September 28, 2005

I-24 Expo :: Throw Me A Bone

Just curious if anyone knows what is becoming of the I-24 Expo. It was for sale, I think. As I drove past this evening, it appeared to be under some sprucing up. From the inter-state I could see plants and lights but couldn't make out what was going on as I sped past.

Have a clue? Throw me a bone.


Don't forget - I'm trying to form a blogger's/podcaster's group. And if you are interested in becoming a guest blogger, let me know.

Local Hurricane Relief Efforts
Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of recent hurricanes. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am willing to donate my first ad revenue check to the cause.

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Monday, September 26, 2005

Proposed Move of Magnet Program in Smyrna, TN

Harry Gill, the Directorof Rutherford County Schools, plans to propose to the Board of Education that the magnet program at Thurman Francis Elementary be moved to Smyrna Primary.

Supposedly this move will not comprise the program but is intended to make room for an additional 300 regular education students. There was no indication when this might be proposed or when this might occur if approved. My best guess would be next year.

Sound off. What are your thoughts on this topic?

To all new residents, welcome to Smyrna, TN.

Local Hurricane Relief Efforts
Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of recent hurricanes. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am willing to donate my first ad revenue check to the cause.

Blogger/Podcaster's Group Forming
Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Another week begins in Smyrna

Well, it's a rainy Monday here in Smyrna.

In the wake of hurricane Rita, I'm shocked that gas prices have not risen. Good job to some of the local gas stations for not raising gas prices right away. The consumers out there thank you for doing that. But we could be in for some higher prices in the aftermath of this storm.

I have to admit my heart is warmed by the response to the victims of Katrina and Rita from our fair city. All around, we hear of churches, groups and private citizens giving to help our brothers and sisters who are affected by this. I know our community is not alone in the response but I'm glad to hear of us going above and beyond to do what needed to be done.

Sunday, September 25, 2005

Good Morning Smyrna,TN

Are you a Smyrna,TN resident? Would you like to be a guest blogger on This Is Smyrna, TN? Email me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com.

I am going to take a walk in the park this morning. I plan to visit a park that I've not been to yet. I'll let you know what I think.

I can't stop directing attention to the cool things I have in my section "Other Sites We Love", "We" being "Me" for the most part... Check out my post on Innovation to learn about the Monolithic Dome, the SkyCar and Litter Kwitter. I work for none of these companies, nor do I receive any endorsements, though that would be supremely sweet! And I must warn you that none of the information pertains directly to Smyrna, TN - but all things would be of benefit or value to residents of Smyrna, TN. Happy reading. Let me know about innovative products that you are aware of.

To all new residents, welcome to Smyrna, TN.

Local Hurricane Relief Efforts
Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of recent hurricanes. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am willing to donate my first ad revenue check to the cause.

Blogger/Podcaster's Group Forming
Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Saturday, September 24, 2005

Disc Golf Course in Smyrna, TN

Tip of the hat to D. Wooderson over at Hits from 'da Blog for pointing out that Smyrna, TN is home to one of the best disc golf courses around. You can find it in Sharp Springs Park.

So, let's chat. What are your favorite places to go in Smyrna, TN?

To all new residents, welcome to Smyrna, TN.

Local Hurricane Relief Efforts
Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of recent hurricanes. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am willing to donate my first ad revenue check to the cause.

Blogger/Podcaster's Group Forming
Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Wednesday, September 21, 2005

Voices of Smyrna,TN

Got something on your mind that you'd like to talk about? Post your comments here.

I understand there are about 3,000 more evacuees coming into Smyrna, TN. Smyrna, TN could be forever changed. Let's dialog, chat, discuss here.

To all new residents, welcome to Smyrna, TN.

Local Hurricane Relief Efforts
Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of recent hurricanes. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am also willing to donate my first ad revenue check to the cause.

Blogger/Podcaster's Group Forming
Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Thanks To Nashville Is Talking

Thanks to Nashville Is Talking for listing me as a Newbie. Darn it, you had to reveal my secret. Yes, I am a newbie but am looking forward to quickly putting that behind me!

Blog on!

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Nashville Bloggers Gather For Luncheon

All I can say is DANG IT, DANG IT, DANG IT!!! I should have been quicker to spot this. Today was a luncheon at Sunset Grill in Nashville for some local bloggers. Any of you who read my blog know that I am trying to get a blogger's/podcaster's group going in the Smyrna, TN area. It would have been nice to participate in the Nashville Blogger's lunch as well.

Read all about it at my good buddy Big Orange Michael's blog. Also, check out Bill Hobb's blog.

Blogger/Podcaster's Group Forming
Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Sunday, September 18, 2005

Things To Do In The Town of Smyrna, TN

The town of Smyrna, TN is beautiful. There are many historic buildings that continue to be used for business. There is a revitalization project currently underway.

Smyrna Town Center
Many of my activities center around the Smyrna Town Center. The Town Center has a fitness facility that offers Karate, Aerobics, Machine and Free Weights, a Pool and Tennis and Racquetball at very affordable prices. You can pay as you go, there are no membership fees unless you wish to purchase a quarterly pass. I've always been thankful that this resource existed.

The YMCA
There is a YMCA which is being constructed on Sam Ridley Parkway. I'm sure that this will be a state of the art facility but I hope that the Smyrna Town Center will continue to be able to offer their activities as an alternative.

Parks and Recreation
In addition to the fitness facilities, there are a number of parks and mini parks around the area. There are so many, in fact, that I've not been to all of them. The largest of them is the Lee Victory Recreation Park at 110 Sam Ridley Parkway. The playground equipment is only a couple years old and there is a large walking trail, softball and football fields, tennis courts, basketball courts and plenty of picnic shelters. This park is located across the street from the Smyrna Golf Course and the Airport. Learn more about the Smyrna Park and Recreation Facilities here.

Halloween in the Park
If you've recently relocated to the Smyrna, TN area, you'll want to know about Halloween in the Park. I've attended every year since I've moved here. It is fun for people of all ages with hayrides, costume contests and food, food, food. Local businesses come out to show off their wares and offer coupons, have drawings for free stuff, and pass out samples. This year's Halloween in the Park will be held on October 29th in the Sharp Springs Natural Area from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM. For more information, visit the town of Smyrna's website at http://www.townofsmyrna.org.

What would you like to see in the town of Smyrna, TN?
I've named just a few of the activies that there are in the town of Smyrna, TN. I come from a very large city - St. Louis, MO. I really like the small town atmosphere but do long for culturally enriching activies. I would like to see more activities in the parks, perhaps plays or orchaestra performances. I'd also think that the town would really rally around a community theater. I'm very excited about what is going on with the revitalization project. The town of Smyrna, TN is a beautiful place, let's keep it that way. Add your comments about activities that you would like to see offered in the town of Smyrna, TN.

Local Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts
Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of hurricane Katrina. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am also willing to donate my first adsense revenue check to the cause.

Blogger/Podcaster's Group Forming
Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Saturday, September 10, 2005

The Monolithic Dome and Why America Should Consider As a Housing Solution For Evacuees

It's no secret that I love the monolithic dome and if I had the money to do so, I'd own one. Now with that being said, I'll make my case in favor of the monolithic dome as a housing solution for the evacuees of hurricane Katrina not because of my undying love of the structure but because of its durability and ease of construction.

According to recent reports, we are entering a period of turbulent weather. For the next twenty or thirty years, it is expected that storms will increase in severity and frequency. Take a look at what is going on in the Atlantic right now.

According to the Monolithic Dome Institute's website, these structures are disaster resistant shelters. Furthermore,
The Monolithic dome, by its very nature, can and will withstand hurricane winds. The strongest hurricanes push with 150-mile-per-hour (mph) winds or 100 pounds per square foot. That force means absolutely nothing to a Monolithic Dome.
"But what about the Superdome?", you ask. The Monolithic Dome Institute has information on that structure as well. It is not a "monolithic dome" which is made of concrete, rather, it was made of steel and other materials. Concrete also has thermal mass so if the power goes off, it takes hours before temperature changes are felt.

I was delighted to learn that one family took shelter in a lesser version of the monolithic structure, the EcoShell, and fared the storm well. The EcoShell has been used as a demonstration home in Haiti to help teach residents the construction process. The EcoShell offers increased protection, more square footage than the traditional building techniques (mud huts) and cost about the same. Learn more about monolithic dome structures in Alabama and Louisianna that weathered the storm.

Yes, Virginia, I think I am a hopeless evangelist of the Monolithic Dome and perhaps one day Habitat for Humanity will take note and begin building using this construction method.

Finally, it should also be noted that, according to reports, the New Orleans area is sinking. The ground upon which the city was built used to get its layers of sediment from the Mississippi floods. Since levys have been built, that is no longer the case. Furthermore, over time, the ground that the city rests on becomes more compact with the layers below. I'm no engineer by any stretch of the imagination but can clearly see how this is possible and understand the horrors that a flood can inflict upon that town. I wonder how many of the people who are advocating rebuilding that city actually plan to live there?

Please, don't forget to help raise money to provide Christmas for the children of hurricane Katrina. We have a number of evacuees that have taken up temporary residence in Smyrna, TN. If you would like to know more about how you can help, please contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and read about how the Smyrna Martial Arts school is taking steps to provide these children a wonderful Christmas. I understand that the Town Center is also taking up donations.

I am also willing to donate my first adsense revenue check to the cause.

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Tuesday, September 6, 2005

Evacuees In Smyrna, TN - One Smyrna Organization Planning a Cheerful Christmas

Evacuees of hurricane Katrina have made it to the Smyrna, TN area by way of the air base. More than 200 evacuees have taken up residence - if only temporarily - in Smyrna. One local martial arts school, Smyrna Martial Arts - of the the Mu Sa Moo Duk Kwan Tang So Do Federation, plans to organize to help families displaced by hurricane Katrina during the holiday season. Although no formal plans have been announced, it is likely that they will take cash donations, among other things.

Instructor Melody Rose (Nurse) announced Tuesday evening in the first class at the Smyrna Town Center that instructor Wayne Blair (Raborn Insurance of Smyrna, TN) and she are asking the students to brainstorm on ways in which they can come together to help the families have a bright and cheerful Christmas. Information about any planned activities will be posted here and if you wish to make a donation, please email me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com, I am a student at the Smyrna Martial Arts School.

Although I have not made any income from my adsense ads as of yet, I pledge my first check to this cause if that check comes before the holiday season has past.

I've looked at my log files and am seeing hits from Mississippi and Houston, TX. If you are looking for someone and you think they may be here, please post a comment. If you are an evacuee in Smyrna, TN and you are looking for someone or simply want someone to know you are alive, feel free to post your comment here as well.

And on a final note, I also think that it is very important that these evacuees understand that we do not suffer from the same apparent racist culture. I hope that this becomes evident through the welcoming spirit and hospitality that the residents of Smyrna, TN will no doubt show. My biggest concern is in the reshaping of the minds of the children and teens.

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Free Women's Self Defense Class Saturday

First United Methodist Church will conduct a free women's self defense class on Saturday, September 10th beginning at 12:30 PM. Come wearing your street clothes. First United Methodist Church is located at 300 Sam Hagar Rd. near the intersection of Sam Davis Rd. and Sam Hagar Rd. in Smyrna, TN.

Smyrna First United Methodist Church
(615) 459-2826
300 Sam Hager St
Smyrna, TN 37167
1.5 mi NW- Directions

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Saturday, September 3, 2005

Smyrna, TN Gas Prices on The Rise And Supplies Running Low

Just visited the Kangaroo Gas Station on Enon Springs Rd. and Nissan Dr... Looks like most of their pumps are out of gas and the price was $3.09/gallon. While across the street at the Marathon gas looked available at the price of $3.29/gallon.

What prices have you noticed around town? Have you found any places that are completely out? Please post your comments here.

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Join Steve McNair in Helping Hurricane Katrina Survivors

As mentioned on Sports Illustrated's website, Steve McNair and Ozburn-Hessey Logistics, a nationwide logistics company with a large presence in the Smyrna, TN area, will be conducting a twelve hour hurricane relief drive on Tuesday, Spetember 6 a the Coliseum in downtown Nashville. OH Logistics will provide six trailers that will be parked in Lot C from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM to collect donations of cash, personal hygiene items, diapers, new or gently used clothing and shoes, batteries, flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, bottled water, non-perishable food that doesn't require cooking and can be opened by hand, paper towels and toilet paper.

The foundation is also offering an autographed photo of McNair in exchange for a tax deductible $100 donation. Those donations may be sent to the Steve McNair Foundation, 209 10th Ave. South, Ste. 342-B, Nashville, TN 37203 or call 615-256-5577.

If you are a resident of Smyrna, TN and want to donate anything on the list above but cannot make it to Nashville on Tuesday, contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and I will see what I can do to assist. I do not have a truck or large car so no large items, please.

Thank you.

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email me at mailto:dailydiablogger@gmail.com?Subject=Blogger%27s%20Discussion%20Group if interested.

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Friday, September 2, 2005

Hurricane Katrina: On-Line Scam Artists Ready to Take Advantage

To quote the guy from all the Mutant Enemy shows, "Grrrrrr! Argh!" (Mutant Enemy is Joss Whedon's production company. Whedon is the guy behind Buffy, Angel and Firefly).

On-line scam artists have wasted no time in taking advantage of the good will of America to scam people. USA Today has an article warning you how to avoid these spam artists and con-people that I'm linking here. It also has a list of legitimate web sites and people who want to help the victims of the devestation.

I just wanted to share so you can make sure your dollars are going to relief efforts and not some joker who is out to make a quick buck or ruin your credit.

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email Michelle at dailydiablogger@gmail.com if interested.

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Business News: Company With Local Ties Participates in Hurricane Relief Drive

Ozburn-Hessey Logistics, a nationwide logistics company with a large presence in the Smyrna, TN area, will be participating in a twelve hour hurricane relief drive on Tuesday, Spetember 6 a the Coliseum in downtown Nashville. OH Logistics will provide six trailers that will be parked in Lot C from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM to collect donations of cash, personal hygiene items, diapers, new or gently used clothing and shoes, batteries, flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, bottled water, non-perishable food that doesn't require cooking and can be opened by hand, paper towels and toilet paper.

The foundation is also offering an autographed photo of McNair in exchange for a tax deductible $100 donation. Those donations may be sent to the Steve McNair Foundation, 209 10th Ave. South, Ste. 342-B, Nashville, TN 37203 or call 615-256-5577.

If you are a resident of Smyrna, TN and want to donate anything on the list above but cannot make it to Nashville on Tuesday, contact me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and I will see what I can do to assist. I do not have a truck or large car so no large items, please.

Thank you.

Are you a Smyrna, TN Blogger or Podcaster? ThisisSmyrnatn.blogspot.com is forming a Blogger's/Podcaster's Discussion Group. Plans are to meet once a month to discuss blogging, tools of blogging, css, podcasting and anything else of interest. Email me at mailto:dailydiablogger@gmail.com?Subject=Blogger%27s%20Discussion%20Group if interested.

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Thursday, September 1, 2005

Hurricane Katrina: I Think This Might Help

Call me crazy but I've been thinking on this for a while.

I like beef jerky. It is good, rich in protein, it comes contained in an airtight, water proof bag and has a good long shelf life. I can carry it around in a back pack and not have to worry about it going bad. Peanut butter is not only good and rich in protein but it can also be stored at room temperature. Raisens, as I've found, have a relatively long shelf life, when packaged properly, and are rich in iron.

People in the devastated areas of the Mississippi and Louisiana are finding communication to be lacking and really don't know where to turn. How does a city communicate when there is no means by which to do so? Where do people go if they don't know where to go?

How can you reach people who are stranded on roof tops surrounded by water, if not by helicopter?

Well, one crazy notion I have had, and my husband thinks I'm crazy, is to package a leaflet with a map of distribution centers with a little battery powered am/fm radio (yes, it has batteries in it) along with a few things that can provide sustinenance and don't require refrigeration - hence the peanut butter, jerky and raisens.... If you wrapped the radio in bubble wrap, packaged these things along with a leaflet of information with maps of relief centers in a plastic bag that was filled with air and sealed then flew over the city and air dropped them, perhaps people would be able to get them, if they landed in water, they would float, be able to get connected to what is happening through a radio, which the towns could use to communicate important information. Police could use the radios, too, to receive information. Wouldn't you still be able to transmit over the airways by radio? One more thing they might consider is including an inflatable inner tube or floatation device of some sort. I know you can get them real cheap and those that can't swim might be encouraged to get into their inner tubes and get to land...

Does that sound ridiculous? Of course, we may be well beyond that at this point but for future disasters, maybe this wouldn't sound nearly as ridiculous.