Friday, June 30, 2006

Superman Returns Blogger Viewing Update

I've heard from several people that they'll be attending the Superman Returns blogger viewing extravagazna Monday evening.

For those of you who might have missed it--just a group of bloggers going to see Superman Returns on the Opry Mills IMAX, Monday, July 3rd for the 7 p.m. showing. You can Fandango a ticket or live on the edge and try to buy one Monday evening.

I'm off work Monday, so I plan to get up there early and get a good spot in line. I will probably arrive around 5:30 p.m. We can either all go eat in the food court at that time or take shifts of getting food and coming back to the line, depending on how the line looks.

If you're coming, please give me a shout out and let me know that you are. I'll be looking for you and I will try to remember to wear something orange in case you've not met me in person before.

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Buying a Home in the Rutherford County Area of Tennessee

Today I went to work late. OMG... I'm hypersensitive about being on time and at work every day because I want to climb in the ranks, of course, so I'm super dedicated...

Anyway, all that to say that I went house shopping with my good friend, who could be like my sister, Kathy T. Yes, the very same Kathy T that you read about in posts about the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meetings, which, by the way, is July 22nd at 11:30 PM at Mothership BBQ. Not only does the awesome Kathy T. blog on all things La Vergne, TN but also does Real Estate when she is not being super mom, super blog lady.

I could not let this day past without putting into words my experience today. I'm not wealthy by any stretch and so I'm trying to be frugal and make wise investment choices. I've been listening to Rich Dad's Guide To Investing, which I highly recommend, and figured I have to make some smart money decisions. Real estate is a pretty good return on your investment these days.

So, I set out with two places in mind today. The first house on my list of house priorities sat on 2.5 acres and was built in the 1930's. It is going for $83k. The acreage alone perked my ears up. There were also over 2,000 sq. ft. of living space in it. So I had to see if it was livable. Driving up the gravel roadway, I thought, this may not be so bad. It was indeed large. Stepping out of the vehicle, I tried to keep optimistic.

Our entry into the building was greeted with an odor that seems to permeate old houses. It is like must or something, probably black mold and asbestos... Strolling around the large rooms, I took note of all the work that needed to be done. Kathy took calls as she showed me around. I proceeded to climb into the attic and as serious as she could be, told the caller that she had to keep the line open in case she had to call 911.

We ended in the kitchen. I have had a few rare moments in my life where I was frightened. Kathy frightened me with a shriek from the corner of the room. She had gone to lay her business card down and a large, but debatable, number of cockroaches came running out from beneath the card.

Well, I think that ended my dreams of revamping that place. Below are some pictures.

The funniest thing about this house is that the shingles on the roof appeared to be new and there was a satellite dish on top.



But now, the picture above absolutely takes the cake. This is a picture of the floor of another fixer upper we went to today.

What do you think that is? Would you be surprised to learn that this is carpet? Carpet that was designed to look like wood planks. How hilarious is that? Not only was this carpet on the floor but wonder of all wonders, it was on the wall for heaven's sake. Now, when I was a kid, I had this notion that wall to wall carpeting meant that you had carpeting on your wall. Now I've been vindicated!

In all, however, the house with the wood carpeting (ha!) was really a diamond in the rough. But in its current condition, it is not livable. I've no real notion of what it takes to refurbish an old home but this is one that I would love to be a part of.

Anyway, talk at me. Let me know your experiences. Got good recommendations on contractors? Drop me a comment here. Stand up and speak out for crying out loud!

Also, get the full effect at Kathy T.'s personal blog.

On a side note, Kathy says that if we were in Thailand, we could sell them. I guess she must've read Rich Dad's Guide to Investing.

Several town meetings tonight.



It's going to be a busy night for the city of Smyrna's government.
The Town Council will meet in Executive Session on June 29, 2006 at 5:30 p.m.

The Town Council will meet in a Special Called Meeting(pdf) on June 29, 2006 at 6:30 p.m.

The Town Council Workshop(pdf) is on June 29, 2006 - 7:00 PM
The special meeting at 6:30 p.m. is to establish the new tax levy level for the next year.

My wife and I will be there for the last two meetings. Rather interested to see how many town residents will show up to have their say on the tax levy. The last town meeting left me disappointed in turnout.

Monday, June 26, 2006

Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting Says Yes to Mothership BBQ

Oh yeah. I feel... acknowledged.

Maybe it was the promise of a dozen or more hungry people showing up at his door with money in hand or maybe it was the promise of hearing his own voice on a podcast. Whatever it was, Dr. Funkenstein says for us to come on over and have our next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting at Mothership BBQ. Now as the Big O states, they close at 2 so we need to decide on a time we can meet or meat, whichever you prefer...

So, the date is July 22nd for the next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting. What time works best for everyone?

Sunday, June 25, 2006

Buying Houses in Middle Tennessee

I've spent the last two days looking at houses online. I gotta tell you... if you think you're poor now, prepare to get more poor if you are buying a home. As I can see, most of the online real estate sites that have mortgage calculators do not add in taxes or insurance which can mislead some unsavvy buyers - in my opinion.

I also have concluded that out of all the places where I'd consider living, Smyrna and LaVergne are the best buys for your money, meaning that you get more house for your money and don't have to sacrifice good schools and neighborhoods.

Anyway, I'm looking. Got a house for sale? Leave me a comment. I won't embarrass myself by revealing my price range. I do need a house with at least 1400 sq. ft., however.

One final note, Yahoo has partnered with Prudential, it does appear. I really like the search options and the ability to create a portfolio.

Friday, June 23, 2006

Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting at Mothership BBQ

Good news is that Mothership BBQ has wireless! Bad news is that I was totally on autopilot when keying in my comments/question and typed June 22 as opposed to the more correct, July 22nd date for the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting. So, corrected myself and am still awaiting for either a postive or negative reaction to us having our meeting there. Michael pointed out that they have hours that would restrict us having our meeting at 2 so we would have to do it about noonish or so. Does anyone have a preference?

Now, if you read below, the Big O wants to get the Blogger community together on July 3rd to go to see Superman. Hope you kiddies have a good time. He's also made mention of getting together for Snakes on a Plane. Now that sounds like a helluva good time. Our sister blog, LaVergne, TN, has cross posted this invite. Leave the Big O a great big comment to tell him how much you would just loooooovvvvveeeee going to see Superman!

Superman: Returns Blogger Viewing

As most of you know, the Man of Steel makes the jump back to the big screen next week with the opening of Superman Returns.

One of the many perks of living in middle Tennessee is the IMAX theater at Opry Mills, which will show the summer blockbuster on the huge screen. Not only that but there will be 30 minutes of the film that is shown in IMAX 3-D.

Yeah, that is definitely worth the extra cost for admission!

Anyway, I thought it might be fun to get some people together to go and see this potential epic film on the giant IMAX screen of doom. So, here's the invite for anyone who wants to come.

We'll have a group going to see Superman Returns on July 3rd. Since IMAX charges the same admission price for whatever show you go to, we'll be taking in the 7 p.m. evening show. If you'd like to go, all you have to do is get a ticket and show up. You can Fandango a ticket if you want or stop by the Opry Mills box-office and pick up one (Fandango will charge you a buck for processing fee or some such silliness per ticket if you order on-line). I'd recommend going ahead and getting a ticket if you're planning on going.

So, if you'd like to come and join us for the showing, please feel free to do so. And if you want to let us know you're coming by leaving a comment, that would be great.

Also, I must now make a shameless request of Queen B of NiT....could you please, maybe, crosspost a link to this announcement on NiT for us so we can get the word out to as many middle Tennessee bloggers as possible?

Thanks and I hope to see ya there!

Oh and if you can't make it the Superman due to vacations or the 4th of July, I understand. I am contemplating another blogger movie outing later this summer to see the phenemon that is Snakes on a Plane. Somehow I think it will that one will be a lot more fun with a group of people....

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting

I've left comment on the Mothership BBQ blog inquiring as to whether Dr. Funkenswine has wireless and if he'd be open to the idea of having us blogger's there on July 22nd for the next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group meeting.

We had discussed this at the close of our last meeting and I know that D. of Chip Manor and Kathy T. of the LaVergne Blog planned to go there (I don't believe this to be D's first time) and give it further consideration but suffice it to say that I got bored and figured I'd inquiry myself, of course, from the luxury of my own apartment, but none the less...

Usually we meet at the Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN, which is quite lovely, but it may be time to venture out. It'll be fun. Don't you think?

But before I end this post, don't forget to download the podcast from the last Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Taxes up and taxes down

The news of Smyrna tax levels being increased is being reported in The Daily News Journal of Murfreesboro Tenneessee. The following details are given.
Property taxes here increased 23 cents per $100 of assessed value Monday night after the Town Council voted to hire 16 new workers.

Smyrna had a tax rate of 69 cents before the county property assessor's office issued a certified rate of 63 cents earlier this year. The average home in Smyrna has been appraised at $165,000. Based on that number, the 23-cent jump equals an increase of about $96 a year to a total of $360, about 37 percent higher.
This propsed budget will get it's final vote after a meeting scheduled for later this month.
The Town Council will meet in a Special Called Meeting on June 29, 2006 at 6:30 p.m.
Now compare Smyrna city taxes going up to the counties going DOWN.
The Rutherford County Commission's Budget Committee voted Wednesday to reduce the proposed property tax rate for the 2006-07 fiscal year from $2.70 to $2.66.

The committee in two separate votes chose to reduce funding from property taxes for the general fund budget by 3 cents, and funding from property taxes of the solid waste fund by 1 cent, and to use money from the county's fund balance to make up for it.
Good news and bad for land owners.

Podcast #6

Yeah, don't ask where five went...I miscounted as I was creating the file. I blame it on the insanely hot spinning room at the downtown Y.

Anyway, here's the latest, greatest podcast from Saturday's meeting. Warning: It does contain off-color humor, jokes and the occasional cuss word. I'd definitely say it's in the PG-13 range of material. This month's podcast runs about 50 minutes as I didn't really edit it that much and I included a commerical for a podiobook called Brave Men Run.

Here's who was part of the fun...

Gunner of No Quarters
John of Salem's Lots
Elizabeth of Harelip Frog
Kathy T. of LaVergne
Dewayne of Chip Manor
Dennis, a soon to be video blogger
Michael of Big Orange Michael (also the Technical Director of Podcast and Founding Member of Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group)
Amy of Bad Bad Ivy
M. of both This is Smyrna, TN and Comment Tater and Founder of Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group

Go, download or listen directly, enjoy. Put it on your .mp3 player and listen to it by the pool as you celebrate the first day of summer.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

How the meeting went

Last night I went to my first town government meeting. Even with my view of politicians I tried my best to go in with a non-judgmental eye towards the proceedings.

The meeting started at 7pm but my wife and I got there at 6:35 to get a feel of the place.

The feel I got was "where the heck are the citizens of Smyrna Tennessee?". There were only three other people in the room that did not have some sort of government id on a lanyard around their neck. The problem is that even those three had piles of paper giving them a "member of the system" look. Here they were, making decision on the budget and tax levels for the next year for everyone in the town, and no one seemed interested enough to show. That bothered me greatly.

When the council members first started to arrive a bit of levity was inserted into night. The room was hot. Uncomfortably hot. As each council member walked into the room a common line of "Why is it so hot in here", or a variant, was spoken. They then each walked over to the temp control and futily attempted to turn it down, just like each of the others has already tried.



That small box was the center of the councils attention at the beginning. I leaned over and whispered to my wife.
and all the kings horses
and all the kings men
couldn't get the AC
to work again
It was well into the meeting before things started to cool down.

The first one to show was Paul Johns and he seemed the friendly sort. Mainly because he was the only one to walk around and introduce himself. A good handshake impresses me and he did. The rest just wandered in and took their positions, including major Spivey. I was looking for a little glad handing.



The meeting started on time and my wife and I noted a few things. The first is the cameras. I'm not sure how the town meetings are broadcasted as I've never seen one. I gladly have no working TV in my house, thus no cable, and no community access channels. The meeting did not start when the major said so, the meeting started when a tech came out from the electronic room and said "in three, two, one," and then he retreated. Now I know the real power behind the throne.

Nice to know our local government runs on "cable/TV time"



The meeting then took the time to announce the subject matters of the meeting and got to work. The night was going to be involved with the years tax level and city government budget. That's when I was very disappointed, even in myself.

After announcing the issues for the night they opened the floor for public comments. Since it seemed my wife and I were the public that would have been us two. No one else was there. As previously mentioned that worried me.

After that uncomfortable moment of silence they got to work.

They started on the tax level and the needed tax increase. They bantered the subject and numbers around for the next hour with only one ripple. It seemed council member James Yates had an alternative budget that he felt would require little or no tax increase(not sure on that detail). The mayor and others did not seem to go for it. The view was that Yates's budget was not assembled with full input from each department head and did not take into consideration a lot of factors.

A certain amount of talk involved the number of police to hire. With input from the police chief about what would be a better resource to acquire. 4 patrol verses three narcotic or vice was the main subjects here. The police chief's main worry seemed to be that if certain areas were ingored a larger hire would be needed down the line to combat problems when they got to out of control.

They then voted and passed what tax level they thought was the best for the proposed budget.

They then went to look at and vote on the general budget and what was called non-profits. Things such as pet placement, animal control, United way, rescue squad, public housing, senior citizens center, and the boy and girls club(not sure of this last one).

This is where a humorous aspect of the night came in. They had already set the level BEFORE the looked at how much they were going to spend on certain non-profit items. They ended up a little over 100,000 over budget. After a period of debate the put most of the non-profits back at the same level of last year and still ended up over. Only thing they could do was to rescind their earlier vote on the tax level and increase it one cent. THEN they had the needed funds.

Because of the tax level they decided on the state law requires a public meeting before final vote. This meeting has been set for June 29th. I hope more people show up to have their say in how their money is spent.

Taxes are going up people. Economic factors aside, you should have your say in it. Be there please.

Monday, June 19, 2006

Bad news for Smyrna

I have just gotten back from the town budget/tax meeting and the news is not good. It looks like the land value tax will be raised to cover the current proposed budget.

Due to the level, mid 60's, the town is required by law to have an open meeting. This meeting is planned for June 29th. There they will finalize the tax level and final budget.

They did open the floor for public debate on the tax level and city budget but no one stood up. I think my wife and I were the only non-governmental people there.

I had pictures, but as life is, the card reader on my computer died.

One Year Anniversary of This Is Smyrna,TN Blog

Today marks the one year anniversary of the this is Smyrna, TN Blog. Read the very first post.

Since launching, I've added two other contributors, Michael of Big Orange Michael and Gunner of No Quarters. I also launched a Smyrna Area Blogger's Group which grew into the Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group and finally into the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group. Our founding attendees were Amy of Bad Bad Ivy and Dewayne of Chip Manor. Michael couldn't make it though he had already started contributing to the Smyrna blog and is considered a founding member. Michael is also the Technical Director of the Podcast. The Smyrna, TN Blog also helped inspire my friend Kathy T. to create the LaVergne blog.

I have used this blog to promote business, events and bring to light news that did not get enough coverage as often as possible and will continue to do so. I'm glad to have Gunner and Michael onboard to help. They are both prolific and brilliant and I cherish their friendships.

As an anniversary gift, I have purchased both www.thisissmyrnatn.com and www.thisissmyrnatn.org. Now... what will the future hold. Happy birthday, This is Smyrna, TN.

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Smyrna History

From the city government website.

The railway has also played an important role in the history of Smyrna. Serving as a refueling station for the railroad, tracts of land surrounding the depot were offered for public purchase. The town of Smyrna first incorporated in 1869, however its original charter was rescinded by the state a few years later. In 1915, the town incorporated, adopting a mayor and a commission form of government and continues to operate under a private act charter.

Sunday, June 18, 2006

"Smoking by the Creek"

Smyrna Tennessee just gained an average of 4 pounds per person this fine weekend due to the culinary skills of the BBQ greats. The third annual Tennessee Heritage Barbecue Festival ended today at the Sam Davis home.
The Tennessee Heritage Barbecue Festival is a community event sponsored by the Sam Davis Home to celebrate the culturally diverse and rich heritage of Tennessee. The Festival will host an annual barbecue cook-off to celebrate the cuisine of fine barbecued meat. The categories of meat will include: Chicken, Pork Rib, Beef Brisket and Pork.
Out of those four categories I had my fill of three of them. Somehow I shamefully missed having brisket.

This BBQ festival was well attended by amateur and professional BBQ cooks from the south. I was not even trying to and I saw Tennessee, Georgia and Kentucky represented.






Each stand had it's own "flavor" in layout and taste.





Dana and Judy Andrews kept my wife and I well fed while waiting the judges ruling. As they are our friends we rooted for them.



Of course no activity on a historical site like this can occur without civil war re-enactors. With public displays of skills, wares, and music they were one of the big draws.





I think what I liked the best was the setting. Most BBQ festivals are set in some sun blasted place with no shade or reprieve from the heat. Sam Davis home offered nice benches and shade to relax and take a moment to breathe, as I am doing in this picture.



all pictures enlarge when clicked.

Night Light At The Blue Coast Burrito

Blue Coast Burrito in Smyrna, TN is holding youth concerts from 9-11 pm on 6/21, 6/28, 7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 (every Wednesday through July).

This event is geared toward teenagers and youth groups.

For Christian band bookings, contact Kolin Holladay at 668-9951.

Blue Coast Burrito is located at:
635 President Place
Smyrna, TN 37167

Phone: (615) 220-9995
Fax: (615) 220-9996

Motlow Community College in Smyrna, TN

Motlow State Community College opened up their new campus in Smyrna, TN. Pictured below is the campus:

In their recent publication of the Motlow College News they indicate that they will be having an open house and a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 22. The open house is from noon to 2:00 PM. That is a Thursday. If anyone from Motlow State Community College is reading this, why not extend the hours for working adults?

This is phase one of a four-phase project. The property was donated by the Town of Smyrna. There are class rooms, a nursing lab, library, bookstore, conference room, computer and science lab and faculty and administrative offices.

Summer classes are being held at the site. Register through July 7th for the second half summer term, which begins on 7/5. On site registration to be held at all Motlow sites on August 23 with classes to begin on August 28. Online registration through August 16th for students who were enrolled at the college during the spring semester.

Call the Smyrna Teaching Site at 220-7800 for more information.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting

The Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting that was held today was wonderful, as usual... The following Blogger's and Video Blogger's were present:

Gunner of No Quarters
John of Salem's Lots
Elizabeth of Harelip Frog
Kathy T. of LaVergne
Dewayne of Chip Manor
Dennis, a soon to be video blogger
Michael of Big Orange Michael (also the Technical Director of Podcast and Founding Member of Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group)
Amy of Bad Bad Ivy
M. of both This is Smyrna, TN and Comment Tater and Founder of Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group

We talked at length about Mothership BBQ and learned that you can put being a founding member of the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group on your resume for some extra umph. The Big O can talk more at length, as he is accustomed to doing, on our fabulous meeting on a later post... I must tend to other matters at present time but will be back later to add more commentary.

Friday, June 16, 2006

Blogger and Podcaster Masses Descend

Tomorrow, the masses of bloggers and podcasters in the Middle Tennessee area will descend upon Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN for the monthly Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's meeting.

According to the Big O, John of Salem's Lots, who has recently returned to the blogsphere, agreed to join us.

Last month we intereviewed a lady running for Governor of the State of Tennessee and have extended an open invitation to anyone else running for Governor. This is a fine and very cost effective way to spread your message so hop on the band wagon and join us. Let us know you're coming! Also, Brandi, if you are reading, we are still very much interested in meeting you. Don't be shy!

Got other topics you would like to discuss? Ideas for group projects? Have you something educational and informative to share with the group? I, personally, am very much interested in learning and personal growth and that was one of my objectives for forming this group, so come and share your knowledge!

When and where?

Saturday, June 17th at 2 p.m. CST at Espresso Joe's in beautiful Smyrna, Tennessee.

Espresso Joe's Coffee Co is located at:
901 Rock Springs Rd.
Smyrna, TN
615-220-2870

As always, if you're a regular, we hope to see you there. If you've visited once or a couple of times, we hope to see you there. If you've not joined us yet but would like to, we hope to see you there. Come on and de-lurk.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

I Like To Move It, Move It!

Went to Movies in the Park tonight and it was really a great time. There were a variety of vendors there from BBQ to KD Fudd's, cotten candy and inflatables and all the glow sticks and glow toys that one might expect to see at a fun event.

Three of us were able to get in for $3.00. We brought our folding chairs and brought in our dinner and ate at the very spacious Smyrna Rotary Soccer. We could have eaten there. The concession stand was open and I saw funnel cakes. There were hotdogs going for $2.50. There was, of course, pop corn as well. As I set my chairs up, I lamented the fact that I had forgot to bring my camera.

Madagascar was the movie being shown this evening. I hadn't seen it before. I enjoyed it very much. I thought it was clever and loved the music. The screen was a giant, inflatable screen that served the purpose well and it was such a lovely evening around 77 degrees with very low humidity and few clouds in the sky.

Kids played in the park before, during and after the movie. At the end of the movie a good number of the kids were dancing and singing along with the rolling credits, "I like to move it, move it."

The Smyrna Parks and Recreation group are planning another Movies in the Park for July 14th, which is a Friday! Thank goodness because it was nearly 10:00 by the time I got out of there. They are collecting responses on what people would like to see. Cruise on over to their website and let them know.

I'll be there July 14th and this time I'll bring my camera. I only wish the parks had wireless internet, that would be way cool.

So, did you go? What comments do you have about it?

Fun In Smyrna, TN On The Fourth of July

The town of Smyrna, TN always puts on an impressive fireworks display. Year after year our family goes down by the Town Center and watches the fireworks. This year, the 4th is on a Saturday. The Smyrna Parks and Fire Department has a great Independence Day celebration planned.

According to their website, at the Lee Victory Memorial Park, which is located at 110 Sam Ridley Parkway, you will find:
Food, Music, Games and fun from 5-9 PM.
Inflatables
5:00 PM, a Blackhawk Helicopter will arrive.
5:00-8:15 PM, there will be an airplane simulator for children.
5:00-8:15 PM, climb a rock wall or check out the humvee from the TN Army National Guard.
5:15-6:35 PM, experience the music of Hollies Buddies.
6:36-6:55 PM will be the music of Brian and Friends.
then more Hollies Buddies.

Beginning at 8:15 will be the presentation of colors.
8:20-8:27 PM, National Anthem.
8:30 PM, comments and presentations by the Mayor.

At 9:00 PM, the fireworks begin.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Best Free Fun With Little Kids

I went to the ribbon cutting at the Gregory Mill Park in Smyrna, TN. I say that this is the best free fun around Smyrna, TN on a hot day for little ones. Gregory Mill Park is located at 390 Enon Springs Rd. E.

See my pics below.



Fun With Water In The Park

Oh, this is going to be a lot of fun. Today the Gregory Mill Park will have their ribbon cutting ceremony today at 5:00 PM and open to the public on Thursday, June 15th. There's going to be a water pad for the kiddies. I'm very excited about this as I have a seven year old who likes to play in the water. This will be very enjoyable for him and I might get to sit in peace and read a bit.

The splash pad will be open from 10 AM until 8 PM 7 days a week. For group activities call 459-9710 to schedule. Park hours are from 7:30 AM until 9:30 PM.

Gregory Mill Park is located at 390 Enon Springs Rd. E. Gregory Mill Park is brought to you by the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Department.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Upcoming election in Smryna

You may have noticed campaign signs cropping up in and around Smyrna. If you haven't seen them yet, you will in the coming days.

Smyrna is growing (which is a good thing). The town council has approved the creation of a full-time judge and clerk for the town of Smyrna.

Elections for this position will be held August 2nd. Early voting will begin in mid to late July (not sure of the exact dates, but I will post them as soon as I can verify them).

There are several candidates for the judge position and several candidates for the clerk position. I will try to get a full list of all the candidates in the next several days posted here.

If you are a candidate, please feel free to contact us via comments or dropping us an e-mail.

Monday, June 12, 2006

Smyrna, TN Movies In The Park

Madagascar will be playing Thursday, June 15th at the Smyrna Rotary Soccer Park in Smyrna, TN. The event starts at 6:30 PM and the movie begins at 8:00 PM.

Movies in the Park is sponsored by the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Department.

According to the Smyrna, TN Town Center, the cost is $1 per person or $5 per Smyrna Youth League Team (team shirts required). Concessions available. You may bring your blankets and lawn chairs as well.

You can find rain-out info at www.townofsmyrna.org/parks-rec or call 267-5005.

Thursday, June 8, 2006

Because Podcasts Are So Much More Fun...

Join us for the next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 17th at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN. Have you heard the last podcast? People like Sarcastro of the beloved Tiny Cat Pants should really tune in.

We intereviewed Marivuana Stout Leinhoff who is running for Governor of the State of Tennessee during the last podcast as well. Then there was a special music guest, Howie of American Gorillas. An open invitiation has been extended to others running for Governor who would like to spread there message to attend our blogger's and podcaster's meeting. If interested in supporting or learning more about Marivuana Stout Leinhoff, contact her at 615-228-4044 or by email at marivuana@hotmail.com.

Big Orange Michael did a great job of mixing the podcast - Yes I did Listen! So, you, too, listen and join us for the next blogger and podcaster's meeting because podcasts are so much more fun!

Espresso Joe's Coffee Co is located at:
901 Rock Springs Rd.
Smyrna, TN
615-220-2870

Oh! Brandi, if you are reading, we really would like you to come!

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Tuesday, June 6, 2006

Middle Tennessee Bloggers and Podcasters Group Next Meeting


Welcome back to the blogsphere John of Salem's Lots. John returned to the blogsphere yesterday after a hiatus and I, for one, was happy to see him back.

John has jumped back in with both feet, posting three entries in one day. He's also agreed to join us for the next meeting of the Middle Tennessee Bloggers and Podcasters group.

And when is that next meeting?

Glad you asked!

The next scheduled meeting of the Middle Tennessee Bloggers and Podcasters group is set for Saturday, June 17th at 2 p.m. CST at Espresso Joe's in beautiful Smyrna, Tennessee.

Espresso Joe's Coffee Co is located at:
901 Rock Springs Rd.
Smyrna, TN
615-220-2870

If you're a regular, we hope to see you there. If you've visited once or a couple of times, we hope to see you there. If you've not joined us yet but would like to, we hope to see you there. I think what I'm trying to say is--we hope to see you there!

So, how about those who are planning to make it, give us a shout out in the comments section.

And I spoke to Michelle and we decided to issue a public invite to Brandi, who commented about the child kidnapping in Smyrna a few weeks ago to please join us.

Hope to see you there!