Saturday, December 18, 2010

Event reminder.

Stones River Baptist Church located at 361 Sam Ridley Pkwy in Smyrna TN is having their holiday hayride today and tomorrow. Have fun.
We are celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ with our community by having a Bethlehem Hay-ride and Nativity with live animals on December 18-19 from 5:00 PM till 8:00 PM. This is a Free event and we want to share this info with as many people as possible. I am not sure of the protocol for this type of promotion and would appreciate your assistance. I can be reached at (615) 809-4210 Thank You and Have a Blessed Day...

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Raid in Smyrna.

From the Smyrna police department.
On December 10th, around 6 pm, the Smyrna Police Department Narcotics Division executed a search warrant at the Mi Pueblito restaurant at 409 Smyrna Square in Smyrna. The search warrant was the result of a several months long investigation into illegal narcotics sales from the restaurant.

The restaurant owner, Claudio Castellanos, was the prime suspect in the distribution of cocaine from the restaurant. Narcotics detectives located and seized 3.8 ounces in powder cocaine, over $4000.00 cash and a semi-automatic handgun from the restaurant. Much of the seized cocaine was already pre-packaged into 65 separate, plastic bags for resale/distribution.

The restaurant also was in violation of Tennessee liquor laws since it did not have a permit to sell liquor but did have liquor on the premises. This information was forwarded to the Alcohol Beverage Commission.

There were 3 other employees (2 adults and 1 juvenile) as well as 4 customers in the restaurant when the search warrant was executed. Mr. Castellanos was the only person charged at that time and all others were released once the search warrant was complete. The juvenile was released to parents.

A second search warrant was executed later in the evening upon Mr. Castellanos' home at 613 Zellwood Drive in LaVergne. Narcotics detectives from the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office assisted with this search warrant and more cocaine was located within the home.

Castellanos was charged with Felony Possession of Cocaine within 1000 feet of a School Zone, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Operating a Business to Sell a Controlled Substance. Other charges against Castellanos are pending.
Rather interesting.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Revoke Section 11-3

Smyrna has a law outlawing businesses that use supernatural powers under the guise of fortunetelling. A recent lawsuit in Tennessee brought to mind that not all laws are legal...but they do try to keep us Brentwood-lite.
CHAPTER 3
FORTUNE TELLING, ETC.
SECTION
11-301. Fortune telling, etc.
11-302. Violation and penalty.
11-301. Fortune telling, etc. It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct the business of, solicit for, or ply the trade of fortune teller, clairvoyant, hypnotist, palmist, phrenologist, or other mystic endowed with supernatural powers. (1991 Code, § 11-234, modified)
11-302. Violation and penalty. A violation of this chapter shall subject the offender to a penalty under the general penalty provision of this code. Each day a violation shall be allowed to continue shall constitute a separate offense.
Now that lawsuit is in East Ridge Tennessee and already the judge has ruled in a way for the fortune teller.
A federal judge in East Tennessee has blocked East Ridge from enforcing a ban on fortunetellers, hours after a woman filed a lawsuit that says the ordinance violates her free speech rights.

The court order signed Friday by U.S. District Judge Curtis L. Collier granted relief sought in a suit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of Candice Wohlfeil, a disabled grandmother who describes herself as a "spiritualist."

The restraining order allows Wohlfeil to reopen the booth where she had been reading tarot cards for three years before the city threatened a fine that forced her to shut down
I think that the town council might want to change or drop the law before we end up in a lawsuit. This area already has seen at least one suit.
In 2004, a federal judge in Nashville struck down a ban on fortunetelling in Dickson.
Smyrna tax payers should not have to risk paying to defend a lawsuit that is obviously going to be lost.

I don't believe in 'supernatural powers but if you want to spend $10 to have some cards shown to you I say go for it...but I will laugh at you behind your back. Honest!

Friday, December 10, 2010

Seasonal hayride

Bob Gronowski from the Stones River Baptist Church located at 361 Sam Ridley Pkwy emailed me and asked me to share this event. It is open to everyone and looks like a good time for the kids in your life.
We are celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ with our community by having a Bethlehem Hay-ride and Nativity with live animals on December 18-19 from 5:00 PM till 8:00 PM. This is a Free event and we want to share this info with as many people as possible. I am not sure of the protocol for this type of promotion and would appreciate your assistance. I can be reached at (615) 809-4210 Thank You and Have a Blessed Day...


Thursday, December 9, 2010

Good News

Every time I want to start a post with "Good news everyone" I hear his voice in my head. Oh well.


The good news is that the Smyrna Airshow is a 'GO!' for returning to Smyrna next year. Economically and tourist wise this is great news.
The Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport Authority is announces the return of the United States Air Force Thunderbirds to the Great Tennessee Air Show at Smyrna Airport on May 7 and 8, 2011. This signature event has been held at Smyrna Airport for over forty years allowing the community the opportunity to experience aviation up close and personal.
This is great as we also lost the BBQ festival and a need for a tourist event was very much needed.

Food!

A ham breakfast should be in your future.
The LaVergne Rescue Unit is hosting a Country Ham Breakfast this Saturday, Dec. 11, from 6 to 10 a.m. at the LaVergne Rescue Building at 141 Gambill Ln. Breakfast includes country ham, biscuits, gravy, potatoes, scrambled eggs, juice and coffee. Cost of the breakfast is $7.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Lil Cakes

A new local blogger has a review up of Lil Cakes.
This bakery is the real deal. Lil Cakes sells all kinds of flavors that sound amazing and they even have tasty whoopie pies – a must if you’re a fan of red velvet cake!!
Drop by and say howdy to Callie.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Coats?

You do not have to leave your house this year to help someone and no credit card is required.
Gently worn/used coats are much needed for the many homeless this year. Keller Williams Realty in M'boro is collecting coats at 450 St. Andrews Drive, OR, call the office at 895-8000 to donate and arrange for yours to be picked up before the 8th.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Crime x2

The following from the Smyrna Police department is rather distressing on crime in Smyrna.
On Monday, November 29, around 9:40 am, the Midsouth Bank on President's Place in Smyrna was robbed. A black male, wearing a black, hooded shirt, jeans and a black mask (ski mask style) displayed a black and silver handgun and demanded cash from the teller. After taking an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect exited the bank and entered an awaiting 2002 silver, Chevy Venture mini-van and fled the scene.

The van was driven by another person but we do not have any information regarding the driver. The van was recovered in Nashville and we believe it may have been involved in an accident after fleeing the scene.


It also appears that the dye pack exploded as the suspect was leaving the scene.

Our suspect is a black male, 5'7" - 5'10", 160-180 pounds, medium build, in his 20's - 30's and is probably left handed.

I have attached two photos and hope you may generate this information to your viewers/readers.

Anyone with information regarding this robbery is asked to contact Detective Jason Anderson/Smyrna Police Department at (615) 459-6644.

Thank you for any help you may be able to provide.
But one crime is not enough.
We are hoping you can help us locate a suspect wanted for numerous burglaries, forgeries, fraud and identity theft. I have photos attached to this email.

The Smyrna Police Department needs your help locating a suspect for questioning. KRISTINA LEIGH ANDERSON is wanted for questioning in reference to numerous auto burglaries that have happened at YMCA locations in Smyrna and surrounding the surrounding area. She is usually accompanied by at least one black male and they have used different vehicles in these burglaries. They are suspected of breaking into vehicles and stealing purses. They immediately use go to locations and use credit or debit cards and have cashed stolen checks at several banks throughout Tennessee.


We hope that one of your readers/viewers may know Kristina Anderson or where she may be located and help us located her.
Anyone with information about this suspect is urged to contact Detective Allan Nabours/Smyrna Police Department at (615) 459-6644.

Kristina is a w/female, 5'6" tall, 130 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes.

Her male accomplice is described as being black, 5'6" - 5'8" tall, 180 - 190 pounds, and is often wearing a black hoodie-type shirt.

She may be driving a white, Chrysler Pacifica or may be in a dark colored Pontiac 4-door or a silver Honda.

Thank you for any help you may be able to provide.
The pictures enlarge if you click them

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

New to Smyrna

Looks like MMA has arrived in Smyrna.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Saturday pancakes and sale!

The David Youree Elementary school PTO is hosting a pancake breakfast and sale this Saturday.
PANCAKE BREAKFAST
& CAR TRUNK SALE!
Saturday, Nov. 6th.
8 am - 2 pm

Silent Auction with over 50 baskets!
Pancake Breakfast
Shopping!
Get your picture taken with SNOW BIRD
from Channel 4 News
Chick-Fil-A
Jim & Nick's
Nashville Predators
And MORE!
The DYE PTO has a nice website that is impressive.

Wanted

The Rutherford county Sheriffs office has released their weekly most wanted.


click for larger image

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Pancakes Saturday



From a reader
The RCCRA is sponsoring a pancake breakfast on Saturday, November 6. It will be held at the Smyrna Rescue Squad Building on Front Street in Smyrna. From 6 - 9:30 am, they will be serving pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee. All for the bargain price of $6 per person. Proceeds will benefit the family of Dwight Grissom.
Mmmmmmm! Pancakes

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

The numbers

Town of Smyrna Municipal Election

MAYOR
4,528 votes: Tony Dover
2,495 votes: Ben Johnson
1,100 votes: Steve Townley

COUNCIL(Vote for three)

5,072 votes: Marc Adkins
4,770 votes: H.G. Cole Jr.
4,405 votes: Lance Lee
3,695 votes: Carolyn Peebles
2,420 votes: Richard P. Garvin
(48 of 48 precincts reporting)

..and the winners are

Mayor Tony Dover(55%)
Council members Cole(23%), Lee(21%), and Adkins(24%)

In our local race for the 49th state district Mike Sparks won with 57% of the votes.

I was horribly disappointed that Haslsam won due to his flip-flopping on certain issues in the last day.

Dianne Black(66%) now represents us in the 6th congressional district.

Well that's it for tonight.

Wanted


From the Smyrna Police Department
I am hoping you can help us locate a suspect and warn banking institutions to watch out for this suspect and prevent further forgeries/thefts.

We currently have sealed indictments issued for Jeremy Hulled. The charges are for 3 counts of forgery, 2 counts of theft $1000 - $9999 and 1 count of theft under $500.

Hullett forged checks from a local business and cashed them at two Regions Bank locations in Smyrna and was able to receive several thousand dollars from the illegal transactions.

We are hoping someone will recognize Hullett from the attached photos and provide Smyrna Police with his possible location. We also hope to warn banking institutions to watch out for Hullett since he may attempt to forge more checks and cash them at other banking locations.

Any person with information regarding the location of Hullett is urged to contact Det. Allan Nabours of the Smyrna Police Dept. at (615) 459-6644 or their local law enforcement agency.

Any help you can provide by posting this information is greatly appreciated.

Sergeant Bobby Gibson
Smyrna Police Department
(615) 459-9742, ext. 2536

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Big event reminder

Today is the grand re-opening of the Smyrna Bowling Center.
Nashville, TN. The Smyrna Bowling Center in Smyrna, TN will be hosting a re-grand opening of "THIS END" from which the ceiling collapsed on Jan 30th at 2am due to the snow and ice. We have been open with our 36 lanes and with the re-opening of " THIS END" will put us back to our 52 lanes..

A family friendly festival will include: Smyrna Police Department, inflatables for the children, fire trucks, D.A.R.E child id kits, pony rides,bungee ru, door prizes, contests, vendors, The Tennessee National Guard display including a Hummer and rock climbing wall, and much more at the Smyrna Bowling Center from 11a-6pm. The children are asked to come in costume so the can trick or treat outside with the vendors.

Everyone will be getting one free game and shoes when they come during this time. We have made alot of changes to the center and hope everyone stops in for a visit.
Be there!!!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Let's make Smyrna shine.....

I wanted to let everyone know that tomorrow Oct. 30th is the grand re-opening event of "THIS END" at the Smyrna Bowling Center. This is a family event with pony rides, inflatables, many vendors, and everyone gets one free game and shoes from 11am till 6pm. Also WSMV and WTVF will be coming by tomorrow to fill their stories for the news so we are asking everyone come out and show Nashville that we support local events. Let's make Smyrna shine!!!

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Event reminder for tomorrow

The Lions Club will be co hosting their Bean Dinner tomorrow and it is for a good cause.

Smyrna Lions in conjunction with The Smyrna Senior Citizens Center
Annual Bean Dinner
Will be held Friday October 29th 2010 from 11am - 1pm @ Life Point Baptist Church in Smyrna
tickets are $5.00 which includes beans, Dessert and a Drink.
Carryouts are also available (Does not include drink)

For more information and tickets contact Project Chairperson Ed Garner (615)415-2595 or click the link below to send an e-mail

This is a good cause and I hope you take the time to be there.

Event reminder for the kids

Tonight
click for larger image

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Wow!

This story about a Smyrna resident has it all. It includes murder, a faked death. misidentified remains, and cocaine trafficking.
Bruce Alan Littleton of Smyrna, TN was indicted on murder charges in 2000 and pled guilty in October 2001 to second degree murder for killing “Andrew.” Another hitchhiker, Joel McElroy, was traveling with Littleton when Bluitt was murdered. McElroy also pled to charges related to his role in the crime and was sentenced to several years in prison.
...
Tennessee. He strangled Bluitt with a belt under the Tennessee River Bridge in Humphreys County. Littleton kept the body in the backseat of his car under a blanket for two days at his apartment in Smyrna. Then Littleton drove to Grundy County, staged a car crash, put Bluitt’s body in the driver’s seat, poured gasoline in the car and set it on fire.
I'm glad to know his family can finally put the victim to rest.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Help wanted and needed

As the holidays grow near can you spare some time to assist a local good cause?
NEEDED: Volunteers (s) for the Food Bank. Contact Barabara Hale at 355-0697 if you can assist them, especially on Friday!!! Carton packing is needed most.
A little time can help a lot of people.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Get your costumes ready

You have a few days remaining to get your childrens costume ready for this years ball.

click for larger image

Tomorrow

Friday, October 15, 2010

Question of the day 5

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce have posted online questions and the answers from 4 candidates for council and 2 candidates for mayor certain questions. There are no posted answers from Lance Lee and Ben Johnson.

Question 5
What do you feel is the #1 issue facing the Town of Smyrna in the next 5 years, and how do you intend to address said issue?

The answer can be found on their website on this PDF page. Why PDF? No idea.

Ham ham ham

From the Smyrna Tennessee facebook page
Smyrna Rescue Squad is hosting a Ham Breakfast this Saturday at the squad building in Smyrna...get stuffed with a good breakfast and enjoy Depot Days on Front Street from 10-6.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Question of the day 4

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce have posted online questions and the answers from 4 candidates for council and 2 candidates for mayor certain questions. There are no posted answers from Lance Lee and Ben Johnson.

Question 4
What is your vision for the Town of Smyrna in 10 years?

The answer can be found on their website on this PDF page. Why PDF? No idea.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Question of the day 3

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce have posted online questions and the answers from 4 candidates for council and 2 candidates for mayor certain questions. There are no posted answers from Lance Lee and Ben Johnson.

Question 3
If elected, what would you like to see accomplished while in office?

The answer can be found on their website on this PDF page. Why PDF? No idea.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Question of the day 2

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce have posted online questions and the answers from 4 candidates for council and 2 candidates for mayor certain questions. There are no posted answers from Lance Lee and Ben Johnson.

Question 2
What experience qualifies you for your position?

The answer can be found on their website on this PDF page. Why PDF? No idea.

Country ham breakfast Saturday

Make plans. What event this supports was not specified, but having someone else cook for you and meeting your neighbors is part of the fun.
A big country ham breakfast will be served from 6 to 10 o'clock Saturday morning at the Smyrna Rescue Squad building, 203 Front St.

The menu will include country ham, biscuits, gravy, eggs, grits, sausage links and hashbrown potatoes with coffee and orange juice.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Question of the day 1

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce have posted online questions and the answers from 4 candidates for council and 2 candidates for mayor certain questions. There are no posted answers from Lance Lee and Ben Johnson.

Question 1
Why are you running for office?

The answer can be found on their website on this PDF page. Why PDF? No idea.

Tonight is the night

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Event reminder

This is Fire Prevention Week and the Smyrna Fire Department has an open house scheduled for kids and adults alike.
The Smyrna Fire Department will be hosting an Open House at our Station #1, 401 West Enon Springs Road on Sunday, October 10th from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Some of the activities at the Smyrna Fire Department’s Open House:
Fire Safety Smoke House, Internet Safety, Jumpers, 911 Emergency Call Simulator, Children Finger Printing, Balloons, Blood Pressure Checks, Car Seat Safety, Hot Dogs/Pop Corn/Drinks, Home Safety and Memory Pictures.
Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. For 88 years, fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record.
Have fun.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Sports Auction This Sunday

Christmas for the Children fund-raising efforts are held throughout the year by agents at Bob Parks Realty, LLC. The Smyrna office held two car shows earlier this summer, while other offices have horse shows, golf tournaments, and even yard sales.

Our big event, however, is coming this Sunday! Starting at 6:00 p.m. at Buffalo Wild Wings on Sam Ridley Parkway, a sports memorabilia auction will be held. The auction features signed Titans jerseys and footballs, including a regulation size football signed by Steve McNair. In addition, there will be other amazing items like two beautiful guitars donated by Gibson and two stadium seats from the Dallas Cowboys.

This auction is being held immediately after the Titans - Cowboys game on Sunday, so be sure to stop by to enjoy some wings and then bid on some amazing items!

For a copy of the full auction catalog, "friend" Bob Park Realty - Smyrna on Facebook and scroll down to the catalog online!

All proceeds from the auction will go toward buying toys and clothing for children in our community whose families need a little more help during the holidays.

See you at the auction!

Big event Saturday

One of the many services that the Smyrna Rescue Squad does for our town is acting the role of host. Be if for a charity host, an annual event, they are there to assist in times of need. This Saturday evening they will be the host of a Spaghetti supper and auction for a very good cause.
Spaghetti Supper
Silent Auction

Barry Sargent was diagnosed with cancer June 22, 2010. He is a husband, father of three, and a friend.

Please join us October 9th at Smyrna Rescue Squad building from 4-8pm. 203 Front St Smyrna, Tn. The silent auction will end at 7pm.

Spaghetti plates will be $5.00 per person. All proceeds will go to the Sargent family for medical and living expenses.
It is how people come together when in need that defines a community. These Cat Fish fries and Spaghetti dinners show that Smyrna still cares.

Grand reopening Oct 30th


After the weight of snow collapsed part of the Smyrna bowling centers roof they had to rebuild. Well Oct 30th is the big re-opening of the center with new lanes and a lot of fun planned by our own Mark Gunn.
Mark gunn 615-220-0902
email

Nashville, TN. The Smyrna Bowling Center in Smyrna, TN will be hosting a re-grand opening of "THIS END" from which the ceiling collapsed on Jan 30th at 2am due to the snow and ice. We have been open with our 36 lanes and with the re-opening of " THIS END" will put us back to our 52 lanes..

A family friendly festival will include: Smyrna Police Department, inflatables for the children, fire trucks, D.A.R.E child id kits, pony rides,bungee ru, door prizes, contests, vendors, The Tennessee National Guard display including a Hummer and rock climbing wall, and much more at the Smyrna Bowling Center from 11a-6pm. The children are asked to come in costume so the can trick or treat outside with the vendors.

Everyone will be getting one free game and shoes when they come during this time. We have made alot of changes to the center and hope everyone stops in for a visit.

For more information on being please contact Mark Gunn 615.220.0902
Mark has moved mountains to help plan this event and more. The more is that with this experience and other events he has done he now is starting his own event planning business. Take a bit of time to drop by and get a view of what he can do for you. Details on his business to be posted in the future.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Candidate forum

The candidate for Smyrna political office will be part of a forum held by the Smyrna AM this coming Monday at the Smyrna Town Centre.
The forum, which will be held at 6 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Smyrna Town Centre, will offer candidates a chance to answer a series of questions from Smyrna A.M. Editor Taylor Loyal, who will moderate the event. Smyrna A.M. is a weekly publication distributed to Smyrna residents on Wednesdays inside The Daily News Journal and The Tennessean.
.......
The forum will give candidates an opportunity to share their opinions on a variety of issues and explain their reasons for running.
This will be televised so you can watch it at home.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Do Lions eat beans?

The Smyrna Lions Club will be co-hosting the annual bean dinner at the end of the month and you might want to leave your schedule open.
Smyrna Lions in conjunction with The Smyrna Senior Citizens Center
Annual Bean Dinner
Will be held Friday October 29th 2010 from 11am - 1pm @
Life Point Baptist Church in Smyrna
Tickets are $5.00 which includes beans, Dessert and a Drink.
Carryouts are also available
(Does not include drink)

For more information and tickets contact Project Chairperson Ed Garner (615)415-2595 or click the link below to send an e-mail

All proceeds will benefit Sight Conservation Projects and The Smyrna Senior Citizens Center
Local events like this you can be sure that they are helping people in your community.

Tickets are NOW AVAILABLE.

A mayoral meet and greet

Saturday, October 2, 2010

3 or 5

My column next week mentions briefly that the town of Smyrna is proposing widening Weakley lane to 3 or 5 lanes. This would be from Sam Ridley to just were the residential area starts past the national guard armoury.

For those interested the town has put online in PDF form the two proposals, 3 and 5 and you can download and view them to see what you think. If you have an opinion please take a moment and give the council a call or drop them an email. They need to be informed of your thoughts in this process.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Take a walk tomorrow

This sounds like a cool way to introduce your child to the snails, lizards, and frogs that will become part of memories they will cherish for a lifetime
Wilderness Walk at 10am Oct 2nd
FREE
Sharp Springs Natural Area near the
Jefferson Pike entrance
Smyrna Parks Staff and TWRA team up to provide a free program the introduces native fish and animals to the community along with an informative walk down the greenway and crafts for the kids.
This is put on by the Smyrna Parks and Recreation. I think this summer they really have dome a great job of making the parks system a welcoming place for the families.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Rustic America

Some lovely images from our area from Flickr.

Rustic America

Some lovely images from our area from Flickr.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Event reminder

Today is the kickoff for Marc Adkins election run for the Smyrna Town Council.
Please join us for our campaign vist and fellowship at Gregory Mill Park on September 28th, on a Tuesday evening from 5-7. Very laid back. Enjoy seeing some of your Smyrna friends and neighbors! Meet and greet!
Enjoy the gathering.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Event reminder

Today is the scheduled meet and greet with Lance Lee for the 2010 election.
You are invited to attend our Meet n Greet on Saturday, September 25th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at the Rockin' Chair Cafe located at 208 Jefferson Pike (in Gil's Shopping Center). Please bring your friends and neighbors.
Bring a friend.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Smyrna Bank Robbery

Smyrna has had a bank robbery and the police hope you can help.



I hope you can help us out with this one by putting the information out to the public.

Around 9:15 this morning (September 24) the Green Bank off of President's Place in Smyrna was robbed. The suspect, wearing a white hockey mask, presented a large, black framed, semi-automatic handgun at the teller and demanded cash. After receiving the money, the suspect left the bank and fled the scene in a white, early 2000 era Chevrolet Impala.
The suspect appears to be a caucasian male who was wearing long blue-jean shorts, a red t-shirt, green baseball cap and black shoes. If anyone has any information regarding this robbery, they are urged to contact the Smyrna Police Department at (615) 459-6644.

Thank you for any help you may provide,

Sergeant Bobby Gibson
Smyrna Police Department
(615) 459-9742, ext. 2536
bobby.gibson@townofsmyrna.org
Correction:
I need to make a correction about the last email regarding our bank robbery suspect. I listed him as a caucasian male. Witnesses at the scene advise that the suspect is a light - medium toned black male.

"Re" a drop of golden sun

This is the secong group of show dates for The Soundof Music.
The Sound of Music
September 24, 2010 - September 26, 2010
Held at the Lamplighter's Theatre, 14119 Old Nashville Highway, Smyrna. "My Favorite Things," "Maria," "Do-Re-Mi," "Climb Every Mountain," "Edelweiss,"...the hills are alive with the Sound of Music. Friday & Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m., Sunday performance at 4:30 p.m., Tickets: Adults-$10, Seniors (55 and up)-$8 and children 4 to 12- $5. Contact: (615) 534-0148
www.lamplighterstheatre.net
Please support your local theatre.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Event reminder

Today is the meet and greet for H.G. Cole for the 2010 election and you are all invited.
H.G. will be hosting a “meet and greet” at Gregory Mill Park on September 23, 2010 at 5:30 PM. Join him for food and refreshments and be entertained by recording artist Declan McGarry. Residents new and old are invited to attend. All are welcome and encouraged to bring a friend.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Prepare for Fire Prevention Week


The Smyrna Fire Department is supporting the national Fire Prevention Week and having an open house for those with kids..or not. Simply put, most kids would lose their minds to get a chance to get near a real firetruck, Give them that chance and a little education.
What: Smyrna Fire Department Hosts Open House
in recognition of Fire Prevention Week
Where: Fire Station #1, 401 Enon Springs Road
Smyrna, Tennessee
When: Sunday, October 10th
1:00pm – 5:00pm

It's time for Fire Prevention Week, and from October 3rd thru 9th, The Smyrna Fire Department is joining forces with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in promoting “Smoke Alarms: A Sound You Can Live With!” as the theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign.

The Smyrna Fire Department offers the following tips for making sure smoke alarms are maintained and working properly:
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button, and make sure everyone in your home knows their sound.
• If an alarm “chirps,” warning the battery is low, replace the battery immediately.
• Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they’re 10 years old (or sooner) if they do not respond properly when tested.
• Never remove or disable a smoke alarm.


NFPA and The Smyrna Fire Department agree that interconnected smoke alarms offer the best protection; when one sounds, they all do. This is particularly important in larger or multi-story homes, where the sound from distant smoke alarms may be reduced to the point that it may not be loud enough to provide proper warning, especially for sleeping individuals.
The Smyrna Fire Department will be hosting an Open House at our Station #1, 401 West Enon Springs Road on Sunday, October 10th from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Some of the activities at the Smyrna Fire Department’s Open House:
Fire Safety Smoke House, Internet Safety, Jumpers, 911 Emergency Call Simulator, Children Finger Printing, Balloons, Blood Pressure Checks, Car Seat Safety, Hot Dogs/Pop Corn/Drinks, Home Safety and Memory Pictures.
Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. For 88 years, fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record.
This is a free service from the town of Smyrna that could save your life.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Lance Lee campaign kickoff

Incumbent Lance Lee is having a meet and greet for his campaign and you are invited.
Lance Lee, who is running for re-election to the Smyrna Town Council, is hosting a meet and greet on Saturday, Sept. 25 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Rockin’ Chair Café located at 208 Jefferson Pike (in Gil’s Shopping Center).
.....
“Please join me and my family as we visit with friends, past and present," Lee said. "If you are new to Smyrna, I welcome the opportunity to meet you.”
This is an indoor event so inclimate weather should not be an issue.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Marc Adkins campaign kickoff

Marc Adkins is having his first big 'meet and greet' of the 2010 election year for the Smyrna town council and everyone interested in invited.
Marc Adkins is hosting his Smyrna Town Council campaign kickoff on Tuesday, Sept. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Gregory Mill Park on Enon Springs Road.
....
Adkins has been very active in his volunteer service to the Town of Smyrna over the past 15 years. He has served on many of the town's boards and committees that include the Smyrna Planning Commission, Historic Zoning Commission, Industrial Development Board, and the Board of Zoning Appeals. He was the designated Smyrna representative for the Metropolitan Study Committee done for Rutherford
County. Adkins has served as Smyrna Town Councilman since 2009. He and his family are 40-year residents of Smyrna.
Marc stepped up in 2009 to fill the position that Tony Dover opened when he took over the Mayoral seat due to the illness of Mayor Bob Spivey.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

H.G. Cole Campaign Kickoff

H.G. Cole will be having his first big meet and greet at Gregory mill park on the 23rd and you are invited.
MEET AND GREET SEPTEMBER 23rd (5:30)
H.G. will be hosting a “meet and greet” at Gregory Mill Park on September 23, 2010 at 5:30 PM. Join him for food and refreshments and be entertained by recording artist Declan McGarry. Residents new and old are invited to attend. All are welcome and encouraged to bring a friend. H.G. is looking forward to reconnecting with old friends and being afforded the opportunity to even make some new ones.
This week is truly busy with election gatherings and more are planned.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

A column and a cause

I write a bi-weekly column for the local newspaper and I stick to subject matters of government for the most part. In the years I have written about the town government and council I have had I think two turned down and one of them I simply re-wrote from a different viewpoint. One that was not published was due to timing. It specifically mentioned a town council member by name that was running for re-election and a comment they made did not set to my liking.

On Facebook I came across something that made me decide to publish the column here with the council members name deleted so you can see what I was trying to say and what is an example of the problem as I see it.
I’ve had something rumbling around in the back of my head and it simply has not settled down. A statement made in the [redacted] Smyrna Town council meeting needs to be addressed. I was surprised and a bit disappointed to hear what [redacted] said that evening.

The Division Street church of Christ is moving ahead with its plan of moving the "Tipperary" one room school house to a town property to preserve it. [redacted] commented that the town was of the mind that the church was just in the informational phase. It seems the church is moving forward with fundraising to move the building and now the town is in the position of not having budgeted the money to deal with their end of this historical preservation project.

It was during Council member [redacted] addressing the issue that [redacted] said “a lot of the people that have called me didn’t feel like that the parks were a place to put it, a lot of them indicated that they felt like that the building, as a whole, not just the back portion of it, held historical significance sitting just exactly where it is and the way it is, and it’s not..it’s not for us as the town of Smyrna the council or whatever to tell anybody what they can do with their property or whatever…”

I’m happy that a private organization is attempting the use private money to save part of the history of Smyrna I was rather bothered by the last part where the innocuous comment that the town does not tell people what to do with their property flies in the face of reality.

During the recodification of 2007 the town seemed to be an a regulatory ‘buzz’ passing new laws left and right telling us what to do with our properties. They told us what to do when they added bush height limits near windows, and parking vehicles on certain material. They really enjoyed the governmental ‘high’ of running tow trucks off of people’s property and making people moves their own school buses behind their houses.

Of course controlling items ON a property is much different then controlling the property itself. There was the case of a landowner near Front Street who was not allowed to rezone her property to allow a lawyer’s office to move in, thus quashing her sale of the property. They have made so many rules telling us what to do with our properties that one member of the council found himself in violation of some of the sign ordinances and property ordinances during the package liquor campaign.

Maybe some council members feel that they do not tell us to do with our properties. Maybe they say that to their selves as a way to feel better about all the ordinances that they have passed to make Smyrna into Brentwood-lite, but do not expect me to sit and agree with you. You cannot control the minutia of our lifes and then claim not too…that doesn’t pass the sniff test.

Now understand that I'm not talking piles of trash, or a person who decides to open a junkyard in their backyard...but items like this from Facebook by county commissioner Rhonda Petty Allen.
I disagree with the Town regarding their interpretation of a zoning ordinance that prevents the return of our weekly produce vendor to The Market. Respected unnamed Town Officials agree with me that there is a flaw in this ordinance. If you would like to see produce return to downtown, please make your feelings known to the Town Planner or any Council Member. Hopefully, this will expedite amending the ordinance.

Everything has to be put into neat controllable columns for the town so in my view the town DOES have a desire by act to control our property.

My humble rant for the day.

'Do' a deer

Our local theatre is hosting a production of "The Sound of Music and you might want to drop by and give it a listen.
The Sound of Music
September 17, 2010 - September 19, 2010
Held at the Lamplighter's Theatre, 14119 Old Nashville Highway, Smyrna. "My Favorite Things," "Maria," "Do-Re-Mi," "Climb Every Mountain," "Edelweiss,"...the hills are alive with the Sound of Music. Friday & Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m., Sunday performance at 4:30 p.m., Tickets: Adults-$10, Seniors (55 and up)-$8 and children 4 to 12- $5. Contact: (615) 534-0148

Friday, September 17, 2010

Fight back

The Smyrna Police Department is offering self defence classes for women interested in the subject.
RAD stands for Rape Aggression Defense and it is a self-defense program designed for women only. People can go to the website www.rad-systems.com and learn more about the RAD program.

The RAD program consists or a 12 hour course, broken down into 4 separate, 3 hour classes. It teaches women how to not only physically defend themselves if attacked, but also teaches them how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations.

Below is the September and December schedules for the RAD classes. All classes will begin at 6 pm and end at 9 pm. Cost for the class is $25.00. Mother/daughter students are strongly encouraged. The minimum age for taking the class is 12 years old. Anyone interested in taking the class should contact me via email bobby.gibson@townofsmyrna.org or by phone at (615) 459-9742, ext. 2536.

SEPTEMBER
The 20th, 21st, 27th and 28th.
DECEMBER
The 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

"Raise the Roof"



After 8 months of hard work following the roof collaspe at the Smyrna Bowling Center we are about ready to re-open "This End". The center has been open all this time while we have been working hard to get things back to normal. We have brand new 40 inch flat screen monitors now, new carpet being installed, and a much larger meeting room. October 30th is when we plan to have our grand re-opening of "This End". The event will be a huge event with many vendors outside in the parking lot, while those that come inside will get "One free game and shoes"! I am currently looking for a few more vendors that have something for the young people to do. We are asking that the children come in costume so they can trick or treat outside with our vendors. This is going to be as family event for all!!


Vendors that are attending:

Smyrna Fire Dept.
D.A.R.E
National Guard (rock wall)
P.A.L.
Pony rides
inflatable
Divilla's chocalote
Ron Knight Art
Chris' Gifts
and
much much more


Make plans now to attend this event starting at 11am and running until 6pm on Oct. 30th


Wednesday, September 15, 2010

The final concert

One of the highlights of the parks programs have been the Music in the park. This coming Friday will be the final concert and with the evenings becoming cooler should be a nice way to end the summer.
Music at the Mill
Concert Series at Gregory Mill
Sept 17 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Enjoy the 80's tribute band "Bueller" again for our last concert of the year.
Enjoy the night wiith family and friends.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Open a mind to the world

For the kids a book is a gateway to another world.
Reading Rally
Join us for our annual Reading Rally, a midday festival to celebrate the written word, following a day of reading in all the schools in Rutherford County. This free festival will be held 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on September 18 at Linebaugh Library, Smyrna Library, and LaVergne Library. We'll have visits from your favorite storybook characters and other special guests, plus storytelling, music, activities for children, face painting, free snacks and $1 pizza, and door prizes. Co-sponsored by Read to Succeed.
The Smyrna Public Library has many other services besides books so drop by and give them a once over.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Hey Smyrna, Who Are You?

Hello Smyrna! My name is Amber and a few months back Gunner was nice enough to grant me access to be an author on this blog. I was so excited!! Then I realized that everything I know about what is going on in Smyrna comes from Gunner on this blog. Uh-oh!! What on earth did I have to contribute?!? Well I've thought about it and asked around and I've finally come to the conclusion that I want to know more about the people of Smyrna. I want to know who you are and what you do and why you love this little community. So I am going to start doing semi-regular posts on people around town. If you would like to be featured or would like to nominate someone to be featured then leave a comment with your contact info or send me an e-mail at amberandjohnv@comcast.net. I can't wait to get to know you!!

A free health service from Stonecrest.

Free is good and it could be a life saver.
Free Prostate Screening: The NFL is encouraging men to be as passionate about their health as they are their favorite NFL team and to "know your stats" about the second leading cause of death for men: prostate cancer. Free Screenings at StoneCrest - September 16th. Registration required - call 342-1919.
Found this on facebook.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Local business in the news


This is about Spotlite dance studios in Smyrna Tn this story was on FOX 17 News

Friday, September 10, 2010

If they said it is it true?

The "National Motorists Association's National Speed Trap Exchange" released their list of 'speed trap cities for the Labor Day holiday. Damn nice of them in my view. The Tennessean put the whole list in a nice slide show and for Tennessee the winners are.....drum roll
Nashville (Worst Overall)
Smyrna (Worst under 100k)
Honest.



I might try to do a rebuttal as my column for next week in the Smyrna AM. Like the romour of our high property taxes that was just that...rumors. I might try to disproove this claim also.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

A 14 year dream

The Boys and Girls club center is open and Smyrna now has a great safe place for kids to go for fun.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Rutherford County opened the doors to its much-awaited new Smyrna unit. The organization broke ground on the 23,000-square-foot facility last fall and opened about eight weeks behind schedule due to weather during the fall and spring.

Designed to handle 625 youth, it is located at 198 Culbertson Street.
.....

Amenities in the facility include a gym, stage, picnic areas, art and learning centers, game rooms, teen center, cafeteria and kitchen. Rubin said the facility will be home to a music studio. Though it’s currently bare, the room is already prepared acoustically. Photography lessons and cooking classes will also be offered.
Plus an interview with the new director.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Do Lions play golf?


Maybe not, but they can sponsor a golf tournament here in Smyrna this coming Friday for those interested.
The Smyrna Lions annual Golf tournament will be held on Friday September 10th, 2010. This years event will be held at Cedar Crest Golf Course, Tee time is 1:00pm with lunch service starting at 11:30am. This tournament is limited to the first 36 paid and registered teams. Your entry fee includes, Lunch, Green Fee's Cart, Range Balls and Great Prizes. Also your entry fee is tax deductible with all contributions going towards the Smyrna Lions Charities. Teams may pre-register on or before September 3rd, 2010. All of this years proceeds will go towards Kids Sight Outreach and other Smyrna Lions Club Community Projects.

For more information please contact Project Chairperson Jerry Oxsher @ 615-330-6505, fax 615-459-6951 or via e-mail joxsher@comcast.net .
Enjoy.

Fried meat.. Mmmmmmm!


This coming weekend is the big Rotary clubs Fish fry.
Wings of Freedom
Fish Fry
September 11, 2010
Gates open 4:30-11:00PM
Corporate Flight Management Hanger at Smyrna Airport
The Francis Family Musical Group
Music and Dancing by Rode West
View Corporate Flight aircraft
Enjoy good food and fellowship
I'll be there and so should you. Tickets are priced as such
ADULTS $40.00 PER PERSON
CHILDREN AGE 6 - 12 $20.00 PER PERSON
AGE 5 & UNDER FREE
See you there I hope.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Welcome home!

The individual that was sought as the shooter of the young boy is back in town.
Chris “Gong” Nachampasak was formally charged with first degree murder this week after Smyrna detectives traveled to Minnesota to take him into custody.

Nachampasak was arrested Aug. 7 by the Prior Lake Police Department in Prior Lake, Minn., on an outstanding first degree murder warrant for the May 16 murder of 14-year-old Rachan "Micky" Chatree.




I'm glad he was caught and this did not drag out an unreasonable amount of time.

Monday, September 6, 2010

Co-blogger leaves Tennessee

David Goodman was a recent co-blogger here who did a few posts on art and his garden...and one 'guest post'. He commented as VIDAD mostly and was a good person to know and a strong supporter of 'Chicken Wednesdays". I recently received this email from him.
I'm gone! I've moved back to Florida. And I just ordered chickens in the mail. Heck with Smyrna laws...
.............
How's that for a "Chicken Wednesday?"
I wish him well down in Florida and hope he enjoys his backyard chickens.

Chief

Kevin Arnold recently won an award as the Police Chief of the Year from the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police.
The award is given to a police chief from West, East and Middle Tennessee.
Arnold, who was nominated by another Middle Tennessee chief, received the award on Aug. 13 at a chiefs of police conference in Knoxville.

“I give all the glory to God and these men and women who work here,” said Arnold, who has been Smyrna Chief of Police since March 29, 2007. “It was very nice. It was very unexpected and very humbling.”

Thursday, July 15, 2010

From a reader

Most people do not know about this gathering.
Hi Gunner. I was driving to the food bank to drop off some extra zucchini this morning and I noticed there was a farmer's market going on in the parking lot of the North Rutherford health department. I don't think they have done anything to promote it, as a quick google search turned up nothing on the topic, so I thought you might like to mention it on your blog. I made a call the the health department to make sure I had my facts straight for you.

It goes on every Wednesday morning from 8 am to 12 pm until the last Wednesday in August, and is open to the public. This morning I saw lots of yummy produce on offer, including melons, tomatoes, potatoes, squash, and okra. One farmer was even selling beef!

I think it would be great to get the word out on this, as I have seen a lot of posts on these local blogs in the past few years about wanting to bring a farmer's market to the area, yet I had no idea there actually was one!

Thanks,
Sarah N.
Beef! That is pretty cool I think. I'm looking around myself for someone local who does their own bacon or hams for personal consumption so if you know someone send me their information.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

County forum III

Sheriff Jones did not make the forum and while writting my column for next week I found this by accident. I'll let this stand as his public forum.



Note the 'humor' tag before you try to kill me people. This video was put on youtube 4 years ago so even then people did not like the man.

Of course the two sheriff candidates that did show up are here for your viewing needs.



Enjoy

New Gun Show in Murfreesboro

I met local businessman Junior Honeycutt a couple of weeks ago. Like often happens when a couple of fans of the US Constitution get to talking, the topic of guns came up - and I found out I was talking to the newest addition to the middle Tennessee gun show circuit. Not only is Junior a fan of recreational shooting, he's also the organizer behind a new gun show coming to Murfreesboro in the middle of this month. I told him to let me know the details so I could post them - and here they are:

LOCATION: Murfreesboro, TN at the National Guard Armory, 2350 Armory Drive
DATES: Saturday and Sunday, July 17 and 18
TIMES: 9 - 5 on Saturday, 9 - 4 on Sunday
SETUP: Friday at noon. (If you want see if you can get a table, call Junior at 615-424-2288)

Looks like it's definitely worth checking out. Happy hunting!

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

County forum II

While videos of the 2010 Candidate Forums are online they had not posted videos for district 9 and 11. On Facebook Rhonda Allen posted the following.
All candidates running for the County Commission were invited by the League of Women Voters to a televised forum on Tuesday. I was prepped and ready to go. My opposition did not attend the event, so unfortunately District 11 was not represented. A "majority" of the candidates had to attend, or else you could not participate. Very disappointing for Smyrna voters.
Now in District 9 Steve Sandlin is running unopposed, but in district 11 we have the following running.
RHONDA P. ALLEN
CHRIS DEAL
TERRY L. WARD
Since Mike Sparks is stepping down as he is running for the position currently held by state Rep. Kent Coleman I really would have liked to hear the candidates speak. More so as I live in this district.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

County forum I

The 2010 Candidate Forum was recently held and here online is the first batch for your viewing pleasure for county seats.
3
WILL JORDAN
JAKE ROBINSON


10
TONY CAMPBELL
ANTHONY JOHNSON
BRAD TURNER

12
RICK HALL
ROBERT NEW
ROBERT STEVENS

Monday, June 28, 2010

Slow


This blog has been going through a slow period for many reasons. While I try to keep up I found this last month the effort was just too much and slacked off big time.

I'm not sure if it will increase anytime soon so if you are one of the many co-bloggers please step up and post to your hearts desire.

I'm currently broke, ill, hating the heat, trying to go back to school, and purchasing a house all at the same time. I'm pulled in so many directions that even when I find something I think the readers here might like I find it hard to put forth the mental effort to post it for you.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Don't tell the town council

It looks like Knoxville has followed Nashville and now allows backyard chickens.

Maybe it is about time?
Knoxville City Council members gave preliminary approval Tuesday night to urban chickens, goats to eat kudzu, and a new Kroger store in West Knoxville.
....
Finally, they voted to change a city ordinance to allow residents to keep chickens within the city limits. But council members cut the number of hens that would be allowed from 12 to 6.
They also allowed goats....dare I dream or is the council able to look outside of the box?

Monday, June 21, 2010

Boat Day 2010 reminder

Free is good!
Third annual Boat Day will be Saturday, June 26th. Just north of the city limits, on the west side of Weakley Lane at the Stewart Creek boat launch. From 9am till 1pm, free kayak and canoe rides are provided for all ages. For more information contact 615.355.5701.
This sounds like a great Saturday event for the family.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

A fun free time for all


Third annual Boat Day will be Saturday, June 26th. Just north of the city limits, on the west side of Weakley Lane at the Stewart Creek boat launch. From 9am till 1pm, free kayak and canoe rides are provided for all ages. For more information contact 615.355.5701

Friday, June 11, 2010

Chicken Wednesdays - ChickenCribs

One of the issues with chickens is the coop. I am in favor of nice mobile coops but am totally hammer/saw unskilled. Luckily this one company has fixed that for the most part.
As urban agriculture takes off, the number of city-dwellers raising their own chickens is also on the upswing. Building and maintaining the coop often presents a significant obstacle to chicken rearing, but ChickenCribs solve this by handily gathering all the necessary materials for a small, space-efficient chicken living space in an easy-to-assemble kit.
Think Ikea for chickens. Is that cool or what?

The article said "As urban agriculture takes off"...except in Smyrna that is.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Music in the Park


One of the offerings from the Parks and Recreation department is Music in the Park. A free concert and family outing that hopefully will be right up your alley.
Robert Allen” Friday, June 11 6:30 PM
Robert performs country music in all its styles: traditional, bluegrass,honky tonk, rockabilly, blues. He has fronted and played for Grand Ole Opry artists, and formed several of his own successful bands.
I hope the cooler nights have cut into the mosquito problem and you'all don't get eaten alive if you attend.

Monday, June 7, 2010

Open position for those interested.

Due to health issues I stepped down from the Storm water advisory Committee after three years of service. That means for our readers there is an opening you might apply for quickly if you want to try to get more involved in the process of the town.

On the June 10th Town hall meeting agenda they had this listed.
Appointment of one (1) member to the Storm Water Advisory Committee to fill a vacancy for a two (2) year term ending 2012.
Take a moment and drop by the towns website, print off their pdf form and apply. It really is fun to do.

Incumbents all in a row

The three incumbents in the November election have all picked up petitions to run for their respective seats.
Mayor:
ANTHONY M DOVER 2010-05-28
Council:
MARCUM G ADKINS 2010-05-21
HENRY G COLE 2010-06-01
LANCE S LEE 2010-06-03
The election is still far away and I'm still making wild guesses to friends and family on who I think might run and likely will win, but the lack of early filers for contenders surprised me. I was thinking there might be a few that would jump in early.

I plan later this summer to ask those who submit filled petitions with the Rutherford County Election Commission if they wish to do a guest column on our website. I think that our few readers might like to see what their possible representatives think in their own words.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Movies for the family

Our own local cinema is showing how to be part of the community.
The Malco/Roxy cinema, 100 Movie Row, is participating in Kids Help Kids through the 2010 Kids Summer Film Fest
......
June 1-2: Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs
June 8-9: Shrek the Third
June 15-16: Monsters vs. Aliens
June 22-23: Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
June 29-30: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
July 6-7: Kung Fu Panda
July 13-14: Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian
July 20-21: Aliens in the Attic
July 27-28: Charlotte's Web
Have fun!

The petitions are out

It is petition season for the November municipal elections and already there are several for LaVergne and one for Smyrna.
CITY OF LAVERGNE
ALDERMAN
RANDY M BARNES 2010-05-26
CHRISTOPHER M FARMER 5/21/2010 certified on 5/24/2010
JOSHUA C POPE 2010-05-25
KATHERINE C PIERCE 5/21/2010

MAYOR
SENNA L MOSLEY 5/21/2010

SMYRNA
COUNCIL MEMBER
MARCUM G ADKINS 5/21/2010
The qualification date is August so we have a lot of time to go, but I'm happy to see Senna jump up and start early her campaign. Good luck. LaVergne could use a change is direction.

In Smyrna Marc Adkins who was selected to finish the term for Tony Dover has already picked up a petition.

The big race in my mind will be the position of mayor for Smyrna. I see a two way race and it will be a fun one. I'll hold off on who I think it will come down to in the end, but it will be old Smyrna verses New Smyrna in many ways.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

$1000

Smyrna police and crime stoppers have taken the next step in catching the killer of that young boy.
CrimeStoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest of suspects involved the shooting death of 14-year-old Rachan "Micky" Chatree.

Chris Bucgong Nachampasak, 19, known as “Chris” or “Gong” was officially named as a suspect two days after the shooting. Johnny Khamla Chomsavanh, 21, was interviewed by investigators and cleared May 17.

Investigators said Nachampasak is considered armed and dangerous.
Being young and dumb the suspect should be caught soon I hope.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Raz'z to host concert

A concert for flood victims will be held at Raz'z here in Smyrna.
Raz’z Restaurant, located at 408 Sam Ridley Parkway, will host a benefit concert for flood victims from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 27.
The event will feature performances from Memarie Gayle, Scott Collier, Josh Connor and Reuben Brock. All proceeds will go to the American Red Cross.
I hope the individual performers links are correct. I did not have any duplicate names so you should get an idea of the music that will be performed.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Summer school lunch program

The following schools will be participating in the summer lunch program to make sure shildren have access to good meals during the summer.
Participating schools are
• Cedar Grove Elementary, 354 Chaney Road
• John Colemon School, 100 Wise Drive
• Roy Waldron School, 125 Floyd Mayfield Drive
• Smyrna Elementary, 1001 Sam Davis Road
• Smyrna Middle, 712 Hazelwood Drive
• Stewartsboro Elementary, 10479 Old Nashville Highway
More details on price and such in the article.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Chicken Wednesdays in other towns

The fight for chickens goes forth in other towns
Chances are good if you attend any organized event in Bremerton in the coming weeks, you’ll see someone asking, “What the cluck?” or another chicken-related pun.

That is one the strategies being employed in the bid to get a chicken decriminalization initiative on the November general election ballot.

Supporters of the movement to allow up to four hens in Bremerton backyards were in view at the Armed Forces Parade on Saturday and planned to hit up commuters and outbound Mariner fans at the Bremerton ferry terminal on Wednesday.
Maybe soon in Smyrna.

Photo Gallery of their activities.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Request for your help III

The Smyrna Police department has announced that they have upgraded the status of Chris Bucgong Nachampasak.
He is no longer a "person of interest" and is now considered a "suspect" in the killing of 14 year old Rachan Micky Chantree. Nachampasak is known to go by the name of "Chris" or "Gong." He should be considered armed and dangerous.

We are currently following a variety of leads in this investigation regarding Nachampasak and other potential suspects.

We are also requesting the assistance from all members of the Laotian community to help us locate Nachampasak, their help is greatly needed. Any person with knowledge about the location of Nachampasak or information concerning this murder is urged to contact their local law enforcement agency or the Smyrna Police Department at (615) 459-6644.
If you see him please contact the included number as the family of the victim is hurting today.




Note. A lot of people in the community have thrown the term 'gangs' around a lot. I have not heard anything official about gangs being involved in this so I have not tagged any of these posts with the term 'gangs'. Jumping to conclusions is not a good things when situations like this arise.

Monday, May 17, 2010

FEMA in Smyrna.

FEMA center to open in town hall.
Beginning Tuesday, May 18th, FEMA, in partnership with the town of Smyrna, is opening a Disaster Recovery Center at 120 Enon Springs Road East, the lower level of Town Hall that once housed Smyrna Police Department. The center will open at 7 a.m.and be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. No appointment is necessary, proof of damage and insurance information is required.
Representatives from FEMA and the Small Business Administration will be on site to assist with the registration process and provide other information. In order to be considered for federal assistance due to recent flooding, citizens who have property damage must register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Request for your help II

The police announced the following this afternoon.
We have had contact with one of the "persons of interest" in our investigation. "Johnny" Khamla Chomsavanh has been interviewed by our investigators and he is no longer considered a "person of interest" in the investigation. We are still hoping to make contact with the other subject, "Chris" Bucgong Nachampasak, who is still considered a "person of interest" in the investigation. We urge anyone with information about the location of Nachampasak or information about the shooting to contact the Smyrna Police Department at (615) 459-6644.

Thanks for any help you can offer the police in bringing justice to this family and that young boy.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

The Market in the news.

The Market is a well established business idea in town where you rent space to sell items. A great idea to utilize space and give a place for people to sell. The DNJ did a nice write up on the business and it came out looking good.
"We're both Smyrna natives, and we knew that whatever we were going to do with the building, we wanted it to be a positive effect on Smyrna," Rhonda Allen said.

She added that craft fairs and flea markets had always appealed to her, and Smyrna lacked both.

"The Market was really born out of necessity," she began.
I personally do not like flea market as they simply are too big and are often a hint overwhelming. This is a perfect size for Smyrna and has really gained a foothold.

Request for your help

This was just received by 'This is Smyrna' from the Smyrna police department.

On this date, May 16, 2010, a group of teens was having a graduation party at 101 Lakewood Circle in Smyrna. Around 1:50 am, a black, sub-compact passenger vehicle (possibly foreign in make and model) pulled up in front of the residence and 2 - 4 subjects stepped out of the vehicle and began shooting at the people in front of the house. The vehicle then sped away from the scene. As a result of the shooting, one 14 year old male was shot in the head and was laying on the front porch. Police and emergency medical personnel responded to the scene and the shooting victim was initially transported to Stonecrest Hospital but was transferred to Vanderbilt Medical Center shortly after. The victim is currently in critical condition at Vanderbilt Hospital.

Our investigation is on-going and we need your help locating two persons of interest.

1) Johnny Khamla Chomsavanh - Asian male, 5'11" tall, 135 lbs, 21 years of age, goes by name of "Johnny"


2) Chris Bucgong Nachampasak - Asian male, 5'9" tall, 170 lbs, 19 years of age, goes by name of "Chris" or "Gong"


These are persons of interest and anyone with information about the location of either of these men, or any other information relating to this shooting, is requested to please contact the Smyrna Police Department at (615) 459-6644.
This weekend is a time of celebrations and passages in life...not a time of violence. If you can help the police find these two people of interest or have more information on this crime the community would greatly appreciate your making a call to the police. This is where a community should stand up and do something.

update:
The young 14 year old has passed away and they are now upgrading it to a homicide investigation.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Dell is moving

The computers Dell loaned Smyrna are being moved to the town hall to help people file for FEMA assistance.
"They'll be here as long as we see a need," said Town Manager Mark O'Neal.

Town Hall is located at 315 S. Lowry Street near the Enon Springs Road intersection.
So those with no conection who cannot read this post go to the town hall to file....wait a minute! I see a problem with this informative post.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Dell doing it right

This is how it is done. A few computers and a couple of assistants and this company can help a lot of people start back on the road to normality.
Dell Computers has generously donated a mobile computer lab with 10 computers to be on hand at the Respite Center located in Smyrna, a news release announced.

The lab is specifically for local flood victims to utilize to register for FEMA assistance and to find additional relief resources that may be available in the community.

Volunteers will be on site to assist clients with the computers from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Thanks Dell.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Talk about bad timing

The Lamplighter's theatre next production could not be on a worse subject,
The Rainmaker
May 07, 2010 - May 09, 2010
Held at the Lamplighter's Theatre, 14119 Old Nashville Highway, Smyrna. Spinster Lizzie Curry keeps house for her father and two brothers, but she'd rather keep house for a husband. Romance and the crops both wither without a cloud in the sky until a stranger named Starbuck shows up with a pocket full of promises. Tickets: Adults-$10, Seniors (55 and up)-$8 and children 4 to 12- $5. Contact: Lamplighter's Theatre, (615) 534-0148
www.lamplighterstheatre.net
Wait! It could be worse; The story of Noah and his ark.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Chicken coop in backyard

A Den of Iniquity if placed in Smyrna...think about it.

Fresh eggs


Fresh eggs
Originally uploaded by zbartrout
This could be the ill-gotten gains of criminal activity in Smyrna...think about it.

chicken coop cleaning


chicken coop cleaning
Originally uploaded by Andrew Ciscel
This is a crimal activity in most of Smyrna...think about it.

What are you doing this weekend?

If you were lucky and only got damp I'm happy for you, but there are many in Smyrna that ended up in dire straights. The town of Smyrna has organized a program to put people together to help volunteers help those here locally.

Marc Adkins posted on Facebook
If you'd like to volunteer to assist a Smyrna neighbor with storm/flood damages..log onto www.townofsmyrna.org and click on the "volunteer" icon. You can register to help someone according to your schedule and ability.
I made the link go directly to the volunteer form that you fill out.

This sounds like a great way to spend some time this weekend. Fill it out early Friday to give them time to find a place where you can best be used.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

What do I do now?

You might be pumping the water from your basement or even your ground floor and wondering what is the best way to deal with water damaged items. Here is a small sampling of links and PDF links to informational sites and documents by different agencies that might give you some help on certain chores.

Cleaning up after a flood (with video)

How to clean up a basement after a flood

PDF LINKS

Repairing Your Flooded Home

Cleaning Flooded Upholstered Furniture, Curtains, Bedding, Table ...

MOLD & MILDEW

Cleaning Flooded Wood Floors and Woodwork

Home Clean-Up and Sanitation

I'll call it good for now. The links should give you some specifics on a few items but for the most part common sense is what should guide you. Looking at the news I can say that while Smyrna and LaVergne got hit bad with the initial torrent the main problem is happening down stream in Nashville and other counties.