"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Technology; Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group; Community Blogging

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!

Middle Tennessee Bloggers and Podcasters Podcast #4

You can surf to it here, listen directly here or use this feed to subscribe in your podcatcher client.

Recorded live Saturday, May 20th at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Those in attendance:
Big Orange Michael,
Kathy T. of Resistance is Not Futile and Lavergne, TN
Aunt B. of Tiny Cat Pants
Malia of Musings from Malicious
Katherine (and her husband) from Just Another Pretty Farce
Heather from Moncks Corner Moments
Michelle of This is Smyrna, TN
and Amy of Bad Bad Ivy

Next meeting is scheduled for: Saturday, June 17th at 2 p.m. at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna!

Carwash by the Smyrna Wal-Mart

Now, I'm not one to usually complain (oh who I am kidding...I am totally one to complain!), but I have to admit I feel a bit ripped off.

I parked under a bird Saturday and decided to run my car through the Automatic Car-Wash by the Smyrna Wal-Mart. I've used it before and had good luck with it. All I wanted was the bird poop off the car so I could win friends and influence people.

I drove up, put in my five bucks, followed all the instructions and....the system came on for a second and then went off. Then nothing. I drove out, went back around and tried to find a phone number to call, but alas, nothing.

So, five bucks and I get nothing.

I might as well have driven really fast down Nissan Blvd and thrown the cash out the window. Just as effective.

Blogging From Keystone, Colorado

I'm attending a Marketing Convention for a couple days this week and am staying at the Keystone Lodge, a Vail Resort, in absolutely gorgeous Colorado. I am in awe of the beauty of this place.

I had a wonderful time at the blogger's and podcaster's meeting yesterday. The next date was set for Saturday, June 17th at 2:00 PM.

Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting and Other Things that are Happening Around Here

Hey folks, come on over to Smyrna, TN tomorrow for a wonderful time during the blogger and podcaster's meeting at the Espresso Joe's. We always have a great time and, for the most part, the dialog is unplanned. I do have some items on the agenda, however, to discuss. I'd like for each of us to go off having learned a little something and had a good time, to boot.

The meeting will be at 2:00 PM central, tomorrow (Saturday) at Espresso Joe's.

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

Bad Bad Ivy is also planning on having a bloggique at her domicile (aka, house of ill repute)... just kidding. We need to congratulate her on getting a paid blogging gig, too! You go, girl.

I'd like to know if Brandi, a reader of the This Is Smyrna, TN blog would like to come to our podcast and talk about some of the information she has been providing on the Analyce Guerra (missing Smyrna, TN girl) situation. Brandi, if you are reading, consider yourself invited. Come on out and make some new friends.

I've also invited Marivuana Stout Leinoff to the blogger and podcaster's meeting to enlighten us on her run for Governor of the State of Tennessee. She has said that she would come but I think she may be committing for the next month. Either way, I'm going to get an interview!

Also, a former neighbor (or at least from my former neighborhood) is running for Governor of the state, Wayne Thomas Bailey. Wayne, if you happen to be reading this blog, consider yourself also invited. If you can't make it to this meeting, we have monthly meetings and would love to have you at the next. The invitation is extended to anyone who's running for Governor. Simply post your intent with a link to a website or an email address to let us know.

Our last Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting was attended by:

Big Orange Michael,
Kathy T. of Resistance is Not Futile and Lavergne, TN
Aunt B. of Tiny Cat Pants
Gunner of No Quarters and This is Smyrna, TN
Malia of Musings from Malicious
Elizabeth of Harelip Frog
The always popular, Britney of Nashville is Talking
Christian Grantham of Christian Grantham
Dewayne of Chip Manor
and Amy of Bad Bad Ivy

You can download the podcasts by reviewing the last couple posts in April of the April Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Meeting.

Now, on the topic of the missing girl in Smyrna, TN... I'm pretty open minded so I'd like to bring to your attention, if you will humor me for a moment, to post this that Brandi has posted pertaining to the missing Smyrna, TN girl, Analyce Guerra. Brandi posted:

here is what someone eles sees.

Dear Brandi,
I know this info doesnt fit in with applied logic, but I sense her body is not far from the apartment she lived in. The authorities will have searched the whole area, I know but im being shown a green area with trees/shrubs that then has building works at the end.Drawn to the corner of this area by some shrub and under the ground. I belive its not just earth shes under but building rubble or something similiar and wrapped in something red I think. Theres a sense of panic that I pick up when shes palced there and tears being shed and someone apologising saying " I dont know what else to do, Im sorry" and Im sensing its a man that places her there not her mum. I think shes been left alone unsupervised when this happened.
Lets hope Im of kilter here and shes alive and well!

Kind Regards,
brandi | 05.12.06 - 5:17 pm

Thanks, Brandi, for being diligent in your efforts. And thanks to the person who provided the information.

Tags: Smyrna,TN; Technology; Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group; Community Blogging

Middle Tennessee Bloggers and Podcasters Meet-Up

This Saturday will be the monthly meeting of the middle Tennessee bloggers and podcasters group. The meeting will start at 2 p.m. CST at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna.

We'll be getting together for some good conversation and some good caffeinated beverages. Everyone is invited and it's very informal, so please make plans to join us!

Also, if you haven't heard, Ivy of Bad, Bad Ivy is opening up her home after the meeting for a bloggique (the term is not mine, though I wish I'd thought of it). After the meeting around 4 p.m, we'll head over to the Ivy estate for BBQ and more good company.

If you can make the BBQ, please surf over and let Ivy know.

We hope to see you Saturday!

Analyce Guerra - Missing Smyrna, TN Girl: A Psychic Weighs In

I wish I had caught this earlier. It has been several weeks now since the disappearance of the little girl, Analyce Guerra, from the Meadow Wood Apartments in Smyrna, TN. Coincidentally, this happens to be my apartment complex. A reader of this blog has posted some things a psychic that this person is familiar with came up with and I will repost that below. Fellow blog readers, especially those that are familiar with the Smyrna, TN area, what do you make of these clues?

I have ask some a couple of people who are psychic and here is what they come up with and i hate to post this but if i feel like i need to if it helps the police with there search

ROGER
TERRA(PLACE)
OLD CAR WITH SOMETHING ON THE TOP OF IT POSSIBLY A OLDS
STEWART CREEK
PROVINCE PLACE
SHAPE LIKE A TOENAIL (STEWART CREEK IS SHAPED LIKE A TOENAIL)
NAME TONY

Thanks to our reader, Brandi, for providing this information. I'm ready for the flames of those who don't believe in psychics!

Analcye Guerra - The Missing Girl in Smyrna, TN

I haven't posted on this in a while. It is a bit frustrating to read that DCS is not being very cooperative in the case of the missing girl, Analyce Guerra.

What the Tennessean is reporting is very grim and disturbing.