Smyrna Martial Arts Participates in Toy Drive for Tots and Seniors

The Smyrna Martial Arts Academy will be conducting a toy drive this year for the young and the young at heart. As more details unfold, they will be posted here, however, it was understood this evening that classes of the Town Center will be joining forces in the effort. The plan will be to collect toys for children and gifts for the elderly.

As I am a member of the Smyrna Martial Arts Academy, I would gladly assist you if you have desire to contribute. Email me at dailydiablogger at gmail dot com. You may also join me in person, along with some of the other Rutherford County Bloggers at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 17th at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN for the Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group.

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

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Toys for Tots; Smyrna, TN Blogger's Group

31st Annual Holiday Parade

This Sunday (Dec 4) is the town of Smyrna's 31st annual holiday parade, starting at 2 p.m. This year's theme for the parade is Christmas in Toyland.

Here's some more details from the Town of Smyrna's web site:

This year’s Christmas parade will feature decorated floats representing churches, schools, civic clubs, and commercial organizations. High school and middle school bands from Smyrna and LaVergne will entertain the crowd with a host of holiday selections. There will also be marching units, fire companies and local elected officials. Santa Claus will be in his place of honor at the rear of the parade, high above the crowd. The parade starts at 2 p.m. sharp from the entrance of the Rotary Soccer Park, just off Mayfield Drive. It will then travel to the intersection of Mayfield and South Lowry and travel north on Lowry toward Sam Ridley Parkway, and end at the Lee Victory Recreation Park.

Come on out Sunday afternoon for an afternoon of fun and to help get into the holiday spirit! Hope to see you there!

If you need to know more about the parade, you can visit the Smyrna's web site which includes more details and an FAQ.

Update: Got the date wrong in the first post. The parade is Sunday aftenrnoon. I apologize for the mis-information.

Smyrna High Schoolers Prepare for Mid-State Auditions

Good luck to Keira Biggs (Freshman) and Lissa Medlin (Freshman) of Smyrna High School as they prepare for their auditions for All Mid-State.

All Mid-State Auditions will be held on Saturday, December (correction) 10th at McGavock High School in Nashville, TN. If you've never attended, here is some advice:

1. Bring your own toilet paper
2. Arrive before the crack of dawn, or at least one hour to two hours early, depending on how long you would like to be there for the day.
3. Bring money for lunch. There will be vendors there but there are also restaurants nearby.


Get more information about All Mid-State Auditions.

Did I miss someone? Please post your comment here. Take pride in this opportunity.

Got used books?

It's no secret that I'm a read-a-holic. And one of the things about being a read-a-holic is that you aquire a lot of books. But sometimes the question is--what do you do with those books after you're done with them? (Assuming you don't want to keep them to read again someday, that is.)

Well, the Smyrna Public Library has a way to get those books out of your house and to help hurricane victims. At the library last week, I saw signs and a box that the library is collecting books to rebuild the Biloxi library system, which was pretty much destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.

I am currently going though my books and creating a pile to take and donate to the cause and I encourage other readers to do the same.

I'm Back

I am back and rejuvinated after several days off from blogging. Over the course of my few days away, I did catch part of a program that CNN had on about bloggers. Blogging is increasingly becoming part of main stream media as is evidenced by Wolfe Blitzer's The Situation Room. I read an article on that. They have blog feeds running in the background to capture real time feedback and fuels their discussion on certain topics.

I've had this idea to run my own podcast show on current topics, along the lines of Glenn Beck, and my rss feeds would be the source of my information/inspiration. Anyway, another random idea shared with you.

While I was out, I did manage to take part in some of the Black Friday activities. I'm here to tell you that it was COLD Friday morning and if you plan to be one of the first 50 at Best Buy next year, you'd better be there before 2:30 AM. I got there at 4:00 AM and a fellow in front of me's mother-in-law had been there since 2:30 and was number 51. They were pretty organized. The folks with whom I waited were very friendly and we all offered to watch each other's place in line if one had to step out and retrieve something from their vehicles. Best Buy also served free Starbucks, which was way cool.

A note on the outlook of our economy, it seems that everyone that huddled in my group was pretty optimistic about our economy and had no problems spending the money they were about to spend.

Now, on to another topic. I saw a clip the other day about dollar stores and how you could save money by shopping there. Anyone out there care to weigh in on the topic? I'm about to do my grocery shopping and thought I'd drop by the Dollar General to check it out. I've been to Dollar General's in the past and other dollar stores but have never been that impressed with the money saving potential. I will post about the new Dollar General on Nissan Drive at a later time.

Finally, if you would be interested in being a guest blogger on the This is Smyrna, TN blog, please drop me a line at dailydiablogger at gmail dot com.

Have a lovely day.

Happy Thanksgiving

You'll have to visit my other blog, Commenttater.blogspot.com to see the list of things of which I am thankful.

I'd like to wish everyone a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. It is time for a break and rejuvination.

Sincerest holiday wishes,
Daily Diablogger

Local Blogger Seeks Employment

Local Blogger, Bad Bad Ivy, is seeking employment. Bad Bad Ivy is a member of the Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group and is a very well written character who frequently changes her templates and designs most of her own art.

A mother of three, Bad Bad Ivy finds time to manage not one but two blogs. The ideal opportunity would be one that would allow telecommuting. If interested, please post your comments here or on Bad Bad Ivy's blog.

Bad Bad Ivy is a well connected member of the Rutherford and Davidson County communities in the Greater Nashville, TN area and would be a valuable asset of your PR team.

The Resume
Education
1993
Oakland High School: Murfressboro, TN

1995 - 1999
MTSU: Murfreesboro, TN
Completed courses while working towards major in English. Focus in journalism.

Employment History
2005
Stay-at-Home Mother

1997 - 2000
Office Manager: Precision Tune Autocare (now Master Tech Autocare)
1804 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro, TN
(615) 904-7700

1995 -1997
Norrell Services: Various office jobs
La Vergne, TN

1994
Daily News Journal: Classified Ad Representative
224 N. Walnut Street, Murfreesboro, TN
(615) 893-5860

Community
Member of the Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group. Bad Bad Ivy has also volunteered as an actress in the Tennessee Renaissance Festival.

Tags: Blogger for Hire

Wi-Fi Hot Spots in Smyrna, TN

So far, I've found the following hot spots in Smyrna, TN:

Espresso Joe's
Starbucks (though not confirmed, it must be a hot spot)

Any others out there?

Are You a Business Owner in Smyrna, TN?

Got an opening that needs to be filled? Have you posted your job in the classifieds only to be disappointed by the response? Email me at dailydiablogger@gmail.com and I will post your position for free.

Why? Because I love Smyrna, TN and I want to help Smyrna citizens and Smyrna businesses come together. You have a position and there are people who want your jobs reading this site right now. Don't wait a moment longer to get your openings listed on the Smyrna, TN Blog.

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Smyrna,TN Business Reviews; About the town of Smyrna, TN

Might We Be Graced?

I'm feeling quite special today. Aunt B. may indeed join us for the next Rutherford County blogger and podcaster's group..

Correction - Blogger and Podcaster's Meet Up

Tip of the Hat to Rachel. It would appear that Southern Latte is OOC. Unless anyone proposes another destination, we can shoot for Espresso Joe's again for the next Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Meet Up on December 17th.

Talk amongst yourselves.

Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meet Up

We'll, I had an enjoyable time at today's blogger and podcaster's group. Chip Talks and Bad Bad Ivy have quickly become friends. We discussed the Black Friday website, which I was desperately trying to keep secret (although DeWayne talked about it first to me) and setting up my laptop with wireless access and the bloggers that we'd like to meet. Bad Bad Ivy and myself were also trying to help Chip Talks find inspiration.

I think he may have found some inspiration in his party last night, however. I wonder if he will blog about that? Hmmm...

Our meeting today was at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN. They had wireless access, however, Chip lost the connection several times. We discussed having our next meeting at Southern Latte. I must find out if they have wireless access. So, until further notice, we plan to meet December 17th at 2:00 PM at Southern Latte.

As mentioned earlier, we discussed bloggers who we'd like to meet. One name was mentioned by all three parties and that was Aunt B. of Tiny Cat Pants. Aunt B. isn't for everyone and if you have children, please be cautious when pulling up her site around them. However, you will find quite a bit of adult humor here. I've been really inspired by the wit of the folks in the blogosphere and Aunt B. has got to be one of the wittiest out there. So, Aunt B., if you are reading this blog, consider yourself invited to the next Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group. We don't sit around and talk Geek Talk the whole time but that does account for the greater part of our conversations.

Oh, and by the way, it does look like Southern Latte is a wireless hot spot.

Southern Latte
447 Sam Ridley Parkway
Smyrna, TN 37167
(615) 220-9889

Pictures from this month's meeting:

Pictured above is the very handsome Chip Talks and the lovely Bad Bad Ivy.

Pictured above, the beautiful Bad Bad Ivy, her crew and the Shiny Red Convertible.

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Life in Smyrna, TN; About the town of Smyrna, TN, Smyrna, TN Blogger's Group

Saturday, Saturday, Saturday!

Don't forget that Saturday is the big day for the Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group. Come out for a cup of coffee and a chat. No real agendas, just an opportunity to get to know some fellow blogger's/podcaster's and ask questions or give answers or talk about the weather, if you choose. Meet at Espresso Joe's Coffee Co. at 2:00 PM. I'll have my laptop.

Bring your questions, comments or blogging ideas with you. If you have a laptop with wireless, bring it. I'll make plans to bring my digital camera.

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

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Life in Smyrna, TN; About the town of Smyrna, TN, Smyrna, TN Blogger's Group

Smyrna, TN Job Openings

Business owners, post your local job openings here, for free. Get local exposure for local prospects. Post your employment opportunities on the Smyrna, TN blog.

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Smyrna,TN Business Reviews; About the town of Smyrna, TN

Rutherford County Blogger's and Podcaster's Group Meeting

November 19th at 2:00 PM at Espresso Joe's.

The Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group will have their second monthly meeting. A social and educational. An opportunity to meet, greet and ask questions or provide answers.

Bring your questions, comments or blogging ideas with you. If you have a laptop with wireless, bring it. I'll make plans to bring my digital camera.

Got plans to be there? Let me know.

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

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Life in Smyrna, TN; About the town of Smyrna, TN, Smyrna, TN Blogger's Group

Smyrna, TN is Worth Talking About

I've been talking with some friends about blogging and communication. I'm glad that I recognized that I could give the community of Smyrna, TN a voice. The citizens a voice. There are a lot of wonderful things in the town of Smyrna, TN and I saw that.

My friend introduced me to someone the other night and told her that I advertise for people. Truth is, I told her, that I merely inform. This blog was designed for the community and it only seems right to promote local businesses and promote local events. I do this for free. The revenue generating item on this blog is the ads on the nav and the shirt store that I have. Every mention of companies on here have been unsolicited. There are plenty of wonderful things to talk about in the town of Smyrna, TN. If you have an idea, please post your comments here.

One day I have a dream to break lose of those shackles that bind me. One day I will write with style and grace and paint pictures in the hearts and minds of my readers that will forever linger. One day I will find a voice that is confident and direct that feels neither joy nor sorrow, a steady and even voice. I will work to that end day after day and post after post and you will be my friend in that journey.

Southern Living at Home

Well, I missed karate tonight to attend a home show. It was the Southern Living at Home show hosted by Gina. I'd been to plenty of catalog shows before and knew straightaway that I wasn't a big fan of them. I mean, think of it, I was on my way to KARATE and my friend was like, you've got to go with me to this show at my sister's house. Well, I get there, we do question/answers type quiz where you get points for answering yes to certain things. It was no suprise that I got a 3 while the other ladies there got like 17 and 19... I'm not the domestic type, you see... So I won the twinkie. That's what will be served for dessert if you come to my apartment.

Now, I must admit that the show was a pretty good time. I think that perhaps, in this day and age, that a couple's show might be more fun. I mean, let's face it, my husband does most of the cooking and he loves the Food Network. I, on the other hand, attend karate and would rather be doing this or reading a book or taking a walk or playing tennis or sleeping rather than cooking or anything else domestic.

There are plenty of you out there who do REALLY enjoy this and I am glad because I need someone to keep me fat...

If you love Southern Living Magazine and are interested in having a party, you should get in touch with Shonna Harrison. Her email address is shonna harrison at comast dot net.

Have a look at Shonna's website at SouthernLivingatHome.com/ShonnaHarrison.

According to Shonna, Southern Living at Home launched in January of 2001 and, with the help of an already established brand, reached their first years sales goal of 7M in one month. The business sold 26M in the first year and is on target to become a billion dollar direct sales company.

Pictured left is Shonna Harrison leading the show at Gina's.







Angela Storelli is justly crowned as most domestic.

Madness Among Our Youth

Query: Are today's youth any more violent than the youth of 40 years ago?

By now, we are all used to shootings at school. Sending our kids off to school is like sending them off to war to some small, if only miniscule, degree. Rutherford County's emergency preparedness drills serves as further evidence of the changing times. Today's shooting is a horrible reminder of those changing times.

In Smyrna, TN, today on bus 116, the journey home for the students was interrupted by violence. Two young ladies dooked it out. The bus drive called the police and the two young ladies were carried off in handcuffs. Then the bus broke down.

Smyrna, TN is really a great town, however difficult that sale may be at the moment. I could have not mentioned this but I think these incidents need to be brought to light and I'm not so sure that we shouldn't mention Juvenile's names in cases like this. Does anyone know if that extends to acts of violence?

Yum, Add This To Your Christmas List

Thanks to the folks over at Nashville is Talking for letting food loving folk like myself know that products like these are available. It is official, it is going into my wishlist.

Thrifty People of Smyrna, TN Rejoice

The grand opening of Goodwill on Lowery Street in Smyrna, TN will be Thursday, November 17th. Ribbon cutting is at 8:30 AM and the store opens at 9:00 AM. Let the bargain hunting begin.

Smyrna Goodwill Retail Store and Donation Center
201 South Lowery St.
Smyrna, TN 37167

For more information, call (615) 742-4151 or visit their website at www.goodwillmidten.org.

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Life in Smyrna, TN; About the town of Smyrna, TN, Goodwill

Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meet Up

Don't forget to mark your calendars for November 19th at 2:00 PM at Espresso Joe's. The Rutherford County Blogger and Podcaster's Group will have their second monthly meeting. This event is both social and educational. An opportunity to meet, greet and ask questions or provide answers. If you have a laptop with wireless, bring it. I'll make plans to bring my digital camera.

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

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Life in Smyrna, TN; About the town of Smyrna, TN, Smyrna, TN Blogger's Group

Random Smyrna Thoughts

• The new YMCA will open tomorrow (Nov 3) at 5 a.m. Opening was delayed two days to get the gas connected from what I understand.
• Early voting for mayor and town council ended yesterday. Regular voting takes place next Tuesday (Nov 8th). I went and early voted, took all of three minutes. There was no line. My parents went last night and no line. If you have not voted, please make plans to do so Tuesday.
• Jim and Nick's BBQ is open near the new Public. Great food, nice restuarant and good service. Definitely worth a trip!

Fall Festival at First Baptist Church

First Baptist Church in Smyrna, TN will hold its Fall Festival on Saturday, November, 5th. This event runs from 11:00 - 2:00 PM and will have games, pony rides, door prizes, music and more.

The Fall Festival is free for the whole family.

First Baptist Church is located at:

506 Legacy Dr.
Smyrna, TN 37167
615-459-3311
www.fbcsmyrna.org

Saturday Morning Tot's Karate Class Cancelled At Town Center

The Saturday Morning Tot's Karate class will not be held this Saturday, November 5th at the Town Center in Smyrna, TN. It will resume its regular schedule the following week.

Rutherford County Schools to Hold System Wide Emergency Drills During the Month of November

A Parent Advisory was released indicating that system-wide emergency drills would be held during the month of November.

These drills will give school personnel practice with the system's new emergency response plans, which went into effect starting with the 2005-06 school year. The new procedures are now uniform for every school in the system to avoid confusion during emergencies.

In addition to November, drills will be held during the spring semester in either February or March. More information will be released after winter break.

Questions? Call James Evans, Community Relations, at (615) 893-5812.

Women's Groups In Smyrna

What other groups are out there for women in the town of Smyrna? I've got someone moving here from New Orleans that is seeking information for his wife.

Please post your comments.