And you thought life slowed down in the summer ...
On this week's calendar you'll find Monday's 7 p.m. Planning Commission meeting (sorry, no agenda posted that I can find so I can't tell you what will be discussed);
Monday's kickoff of the Summer Reading Program at the library (www.brentwood-tn.org/index.aspx?page=558);
The last Sabrina Fair performances at Towne Centre Theatre (http://www.townecentretheatre.com/);
Friday night's Mandy Barnett concert being held at Brentwood High School by the Brentwood Morning Rotary Club. http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/05/patsy-cline-coming-to-brentwood.html
Looking ahead a bit, the first real Summer Concert Theater performance on Sunday at Crockett Park. Since the Nashville Symphony cancelled, this will be the first opportunity to pack the picnic basket, meet up with a few friends and enjoy Riders in the Sky. The singing cowboys are always a favorite. (http://www.ridersinthesky.com/
And I understand Red Mountain Bank opens today. I'll drop in to see the makeover ASAP. I've heard it's an amazing transformation. (http://redmountainbank.com/)
Check back today and during the week for new posts, and please keep scrolling down if you missed reading last week. You'll find out who's opening a new restaurant in Town Center (Chuy's who?), a tribute to Pete Schutt, who received a key to the city last week; coverage of the first Brentwood Future meeting, links to the city's new budget and Capitol Improvements Program and lots more.
If you have BrentWord worthy news to share, please email me at brentword@comcast.net.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Amazing day in downtown Brentwood
What an amazing day it's been.
Had incredible meeting with web designer. Then had lunch at Sweetpea's Cafe (formerly Maggie's) just off Church Street in the little strip mall just east of Pewitt Drive. Not only was the catfish great, we were told that business has really begun to pick back up after a slow spring.
I'm taking that as a positive sign the recession is slowing.
Next it was on to Tom Jones' State Farm insurance office where I gazed across at the new Red Mountain Bank. Who would have thought the downtrodden building at that corner could be rejuvenated and landscaped to look so wonderful? Paired with the framing going up on the Pinnacle Bank building at Franklin Road and Town Center Way and the amazing facelift to the building that now houses The Perch coffee and crepe house, we have some real-world examples of how Town Center can improve right now.
See my previous post about the new restaurant renovating the sad Church Street Pub building and you'll agree we're really on a roll here.
Did I mention Spruce, my new favorite gift and home accessories store? If you haven't stopped in, do it. After eyeing it for months, I finally went in today. Wow. No need to head to downtown Franklin and redo or any of the other stores there. Combined with existing businesses like Hot Pink, Gabriel's Garden and the other boutiques that call downtown Brentwood home, we're looking good.
Cheerleading for Brentwood? Sure. But why not. Anyone who knows me knows I don't give feint praise.
So get out this weekend and start exploring yourself. And if you're hungry, I thoroughly recommend the catfish at Sweetpea's.
Had incredible meeting with web designer. Then had lunch at Sweetpea's Cafe (formerly Maggie's) just off Church Street in the little strip mall just east of Pewitt Drive. Not only was the catfish great, we were told that business has really begun to pick back up after a slow spring.
I'm taking that as a positive sign the recession is slowing.
Next it was on to Tom Jones' State Farm insurance office where I gazed across at the new Red Mountain Bank. Who would have thought the downtrodden building at that corner could be rejuvenated and landscaped to look so wonderful? Paired with the framing going up on the Pinnacle Bank building at Franklin Road and Town Center Way and the amazing facelift to the building that now houses The Perch coffee and crepe house, we have some real-world examples of how Town Center can improve right now.
See my previous post about the new restaurant renovating the sad Church Street Pub building and you'll agree we're really on a roll here.
Did I mention Spruce, my new favorite gift and home accessories store? If you haven't stopped in, do it. After eyeing it for months, I finally went in today. Wow. No need to head to downtown Franklin and redo or any of the other stores there. Combined with existing businesses like Hot Pink, Gabriel's Garden and the other boutiques that call downtown Brentwood home, we're looking good.
Cheerleading for Brentwood? Sure. But why not. Anyone who knows me knows I don't give feint praise.
So get out this weekend and start exploring yourself. And if you're hungry, I thoroughly recommend the catfish at Sweetpea's.
Bean bringing Texas BBQ to Town Center
Here's a little scoop for all fans of Texas Barbecue:
Judge Bean's BBQ is coming to Brentwood. That's right, Aubrey Bean, who first won fans with his restaurant near the Tennessee State Fairgrounds before moving to the Gulch on 12th Avenue in downtown Nashville, has bought and is renovating the old Church Street Pub.
Popped in today to check out the work and it's coming right along.
The old pub, Brentwood Sports Grille and other incarnations that have occupied the gray-framed Town Center bar over the past few years are in the process of being ripped away. Let's hope the outside is repainted to give it a new vibe too.
More details as they become available. Everyone's so excited about Chuy's coming to Cool Springs but I think this could be big for Brentwood.
Judge Bean's BBQ is coming to Brentwood. That's right, Aubrey Bean, who first won fans with his restaurant near the Tennessee State Fairgrounds before moving to the Gulch on 12th Avenue in downtown Nashville, has bought and is renovating the old Church Street Pub.
Popped in today to check out the work and it's coming right along.
The old pub, Brentwood Sports Grille and other incarnations that have occupied the gray-framed Town Center bar over the past few years are in the process of being ripped away. Let's hope the outside is repainted to give it a new vibe too.
More details as they become available. Everyone's so excited about Chuy's coming to Cool Springs but I think this could be big for Brentwood.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Patsy Cline coming to Brentwood!
OK, so really it's Mandy Barnett, who's currently starring in Always ... Patsy Cline at the Ryman, coming to play the Brentwood's own version of the Ryman -- Brentwood High's Campbell Center. But a full Mandy Barnett concert, especially one that benefits all the good works of the Brentwood Morning Rotary Club, is a must-see event.Here are the details:
The concert is Friday, June 5, at 7:30 p.m. Reserved tickets are $35, with general admission $30. Still tracking down where you can buy advance tickets so check back for details.
And don't think this is just some little three-song deal for charity. "This is a full Mandy Barnett concert, focusing on classic country songs," according to her website, http://www.mandybarnett.com/.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
City proclaims Pete a legend
Anyone who read my newspaper column or now reads this blog knows I cheat on my husband. I have a thing for older men. Much older men.
Pete Schutt's daughter asked me Tuesday night how I had gotten to know her dad. I really couldn't remember. I think we connected on some city issue and just clicked. Since then we've lunched and laughed and he's given me some great political and life advice.
My family was lucky enough to have attended two of the Meadowlake Homeowners Association picnics that Pete and his bride Joyce hosted for years at their "lakefront" home on Williamsburg Road. But beyond introducing ourselves, we didn't connect then.
It was several years later that the World War II veteran and I started "sparking" so to speak. I always light up when I see him. Maybe it's because I so seldom get to see my dad and Pete reminds me so much of him.
For years, some might say 33, Pete has been a Brentwood fixture. He's been an active citizen by attending board meetings and writing letters to board members and city staff. He even put his name forward to fill out Bill Youree's seat last year after Bill's too-sudden death.
As recently as a few weeks ago, Pete sent a letter to all of the commissioners urging them to take the lead in redevelopment of Town Center.
"As a concerned member of the community, can I expect to hear that the city commission is going to get the ball rolling?" he asked. He wrote he had read about a small, grassroots group that wants to see more progress made there.
"The city has the gavel. Let me hear it to get the meetings started. Together we can move a mountain but divided all we can do is talk ... Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference," he continued.
He signed it, "May love, joy and peace be yours, Pete Schutt."
At Tuesday's City Commission meeting, love, joy and peace were evident. Commissioners recognized him for his role as a soft-spoken citizen activist -- activist being used here in the best sense of the word.
You see Pete is moving to Franklin soon. I actually suggested the 50-plus development where he is buying a home. Now I feel guilty.
At the meeting, Mayor Betsy Crossley called Pete up to the front of the board room. First she presented him with an official proclamation and key to the city. Then the accolades began.
Calling Pete, "a citizen who has never held back," Commissioner Anne Dunn noted that when Pete had concerns, his criticism was "always taken to heart."
"Pete, we love you," Joe Sweeney told him. "You've never been vindictive, you've always been firm." He added how much he had enjoyed the birthday cakes Pete and Joyce had baked for board members over the years.
"It wouldn't be a city commission meeting if he wasn't sitting there on the second row," quipped Joe Reagan, who went on to mention his and Pete's shared love of woodworking. (And for the record, I'm convinced the too-small wood shop at The Heritage may have been the deciding factor in Pete's departure.)
Pete actually has several reasons for moving to Franklin, not the least of which is being closer to his bride. Joyce, as much a figure at Brentwood City Commission meetings over the years as her husband, has Alzheimer's Disease. A few years ago she moved into a Franklin assisted living facility better equipped to take care of her.
In a prepared statement, carefully printed in pencil on an index card, Pete told the commission how much he appreciated the fact that it had remained non-partisan and urged it to stay that way.
"Joyce and I have enjoyed every minute we've been here," Pete told those attending the meeting, including two of his children, a granddaughter and a great-granddaughter who traveled to Brentwood to see him honored. "Brentwood has been good to us ... I am not moving far down the road so will be able to come back often."
I sure hope so.
Camp lets kids be the stars
Centre Stage Productions
The Summer Stock Performance School
of Towne Centre Theatre
BrentWord news services
BRENTWOOD -- This year, Centre Stage will offer 3 separate week-long intensive Musical Theater Camps at Towne Centre Theatre. Each of these camps will be from 9am-12 pm every morning Monday through Thursday, and on Friday from 1pm-7pm with a pizza dinner break at 5 pm. At 7 pm on Friday, the show begins for friends and family.
We will offer two camps for young performers ages 6-11 and one camp for older performers ages 12-17.
Camp #1: Dancing through the Decades; Young Performers (ages 6-11) - June 8-12, (show on Friday, June 8).
Camp #2: Broadway Lights - featuring music from Chicago, Mamma Mia, West Side Story and more! Teen Performers (ages 12-17), June 22-26 (show on June 26)
Camp #3: Rock n’ Roll Revival; Young Performers (ages 6-11), June 29-July 3 (show on July 3)
The Friday evening performances will be a themed musical revue, and all of the musical numbers, dialogue, and choreography will revolve around this theme. Solos and duets will be available to participants, as well as many group numbers.
All participants in the camp will receive a camp T-shirt (used as a costume in the performance), a free pizza dinner the night of the performance, and a CD with the music from the show. Each camper will also receive four tickets to the show on Friday.
Musical Theater Mini Camp tuition is $200 for the first child in a family, and $170 for each additional child. For more information and to register, visit http://www.townecentretheatre.com/.
About the Instructors:
Kari Cherie Smith: As the Theater Arts Teacher and Forensics Coach at Ravenwood High School for the last seven years, Kari Cherie works with theater students on an everyday basis. She graduated from Lipscomb University with a degree in Theater and English Education and a minor in Vocal Performance. Kari is also a seasoned dancer and choreographer, having trained here in Brentwood at The Dance Machine. A four-year member of the Vanderbilt Spirit of Gold Danceline while in college, Kari Cherie has directed and choreographed for many schools and theaters in the area for over a decade. As performer herself, she is excited to be a part of Towne Centre Theatre’s educational effort to reach out to children in the community.
Becca Messner: For over fifteen years, Becca has taught dance and choreographed in Knoxville, Orlando, Nashville, Franklin, and Kentucky. As a charter member of the performance group Kids Unlimited and the Knoxville Performing Arts Insitute, Becca performed in New York, Toronto, the Bahamas, Walt Disney World, and the White House. Productions she has choreographed include Annie, The Wiz, Oliver, Grease, West Side Story, Music Man and Joseph. She also was the choreographer for the Miss Kentucky USA pageant from 2003-2005. She is a graduate of Lipscomb University and danced on the Vanderbilt University Sprit of Gold Danceline for three years.
Randy Dierkes: A recent graduate of Ravenwood High School, Randy is an experienced performer as a singer, dancer, and an actor. As a Towne Center stage performer himself, Randy also brings experiences in school and church choir as well as an extensive background in Forensics and Speech. With dance training at DC and at Spotlite and with vocal training from Tracy Prentice, Randy is excited to be teaching at Towne Centre for a second year. Randy’s stage credits range from Footloose to West Side Story, and he will be attending Florida State University’s musical theater program in the fall.
Coming up @ BrentWord ....
Coming soon to a blog near you:
- Pictures from Pete's special night! (see previous posting)
- News on Leadership Brentwood (apply with me. We can be classmates!)
- Details on big tax rate hike! (Just joking but that will teach you to miss commission meetings when they are voting on such things)
- Forget those high school seniors, find out what Brentwood firefighter was named valedictorian of his recent training class.
- Brentwood Library's Summer Reading Program has an entertainment lineup even the Sommet Center can't compete with
- Find out what commissioners will be on what committees this year
- And learn what NASCAR driver's daughter may, or may not, be living here now.
But in the meantime, check out Jill Burgin's blog about her family's recent trip to Disneyland. Jill, a former Williamson A.M. columnist, is a must read for Brentwood moms (and dads) of any age: http://seafoodchicken.blogspot.com/2009/05/footwear-above-all.html
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
When Pete's the star, put him on agenda!
I am so not happy with the City of Brentwood.
It cost me 43 minutes of my life Tuesday night after a fast 35-minute City Commission meeting.
You see, it's like this: Pete Schutt, one of my all-time favorite people in Brentwood and beyond, was elevated tonight to the ranks of country music legend Eddy Arnold, the mayors of Brentwood, England and a very few other esteemed individuals.
Mayor Betsy Crossley presented Pete with a proclamation and a key to the city.
Was it on the agenda? Did they announce it to media outlets, especially ones as big and important as BrentWord? The answer would be no. So did I have a camera? No. Did Kiri Walton from the Williamson Herald? No. Was Williamson A.M. there? No.
Before I knew it, Pete's up there getting proclamated and there's nary a cameraman to capture the historic moment. After the meeting I took a few shots on my new-but-not-yet-web-connected cell phone but had no idea how to download them to my computer.
That's where the 43 minutes comes in.
As a faithful Sprint subscriber for almost 10 years, I gave it every benefit of the doubt tonight, checking out the User's Guide first and then the website (as directed in the User's Guide). I even tried live chat with online adviser Bryan J.
But do you see a picture of Pete, or his proclamation, or his key here? Let's just say that I'm not a happy camper right now.
But like John Paul Jones, I have not yet begun to fight. Check back Wednesday for details from the short but intriguing meeting ... and hopefully a few pics of Pete.
It cost me 43 minutes of my life Tuesday night after a fast 35-minute City Commission meeting.
You see, it's like this: Pete Schutt, one of my all-time favorite people in Brentwood and beyond, was elevated tonight to the ranks of country music legend Eddy Arnold, the mayors of Brentwood, England and a very few other esteemed individuals.
Mayor Betsy Crossley presented Pete with a proclamation and a key to the city.
Was it on the agenda? Did they announce it to media outlets, especially ones as big and important as BrentWord? The answer would be no. So did I have a camera? No. Did Kiri Walton from the Williamson Herald? No. Was Williamson A.M. there? No.
Before I knew it, Pete's up there getting proclamated and there's nary a cameraman to capture the historic moment. After the meeting I took a few shots on my new-but-not-yet-web-connected cell phone but had no idea how to download them to my computer.
That's where the 43 minutes comes in.
As a faithful Sprint subscriber for almost 10 years, I gave it every benefit of the doubt tonight, checking out the User's Guide first and then the website (as directed in the User's Guide). I even tried live chat with online adviser Bryan J.
But do you see a picture of Pete, or his proclamation, or his key here? Let's just say that I'm not a happy camper right now.
But like John Paul Jones, I have not yet begun to fight. Check back Wednesday for details from the short but intriguing meeting ... and hopefully a few pics of Pete.
Have a say in city's budget...
Tonight's 7 p.m. City Commission meeting represents the first of three opportunities for citizens to comment on the proposed 2010 fiscal year budget as well as the Capital Improvements Program. You can also comment on the proposed property tax rate, but since the city plans to hold that at the same rate it's been for the past 19 years, I doubt there will be much discussion.
To review the proposed budget, visit: http://cobaq.org/agenda_publish.cfm. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click link to the attachments to download a copy.
To review the proposed Capital Improvements Program, visit: brentwood-tn.org/index.aspx?page=415
To be part of the process, be at the Brentwood Municipal Center, 5211 Maryland Way, in Maryland Farms. The board room is on the second floor.
To review the proposed budget, visit: http://cobaq.org/agenda_publish.cfm. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click link to the attachments to download a copy.
To review the proposed Capital Improvements Program, visit: brentwood-tn.org/index.aspx?page=415
To be part of the process, be at the Brentwood Municipal Center, 5211 Maryland Way, in Maryland Farms. The board room is on the second floor.
A memorable weekend for sure...
What a great weekend ...
Congrats to Anna Kiser and Will Baugher Jr., BHS sweethearts and new Belmont grads who were married on Saturday. Anna's mom, LeAnn, is a media specialist at Brentwood High. Dad Jimmy is quarterbacks coach at Vandy (think Jay Cutler). Will grew up in Meadowlake and has scored his dream job already -- working with reptiles at the Nashville Zoo.
And how is this for being a great big sister (and new brother-in-law): Anna and Will postponed their honeymoon a day in order to see sister Jamie graduate from BHS on Sunday.
Cory Smeltzer is headed to Auburn, where I expect her to be a leader the minute she steps on campus. Can't wait to see what awaits her there.
Lauren Walsh is headed to Eastern University outside of Philadelphia, Pa. Lauren, who has already been on two international mission trips may help save the world (or at least a little piece of it).
Stay well until Leanne Justus graduates from pharmacy school at Samford. She's definitely someone you want taking care of you.
Look for Chloe Morelli on Project Runway in a few years. Chloe switched from MTSU to UT-Martin after a late visit when she fell in love with the smaller campus. If only she had visited Emory & Henry ...
And finally, there's Nicole Brooks, who lives within shouting distance of the Williamson County line but graduated from Overton. Nicole is headed to the University of Evansville in Illinois and wants to take the business world by storm. No doubts from me that she will.
Congrats to Anna Kiser and Will Baugher Jr., BHS sweethearts and new Belmont grads who were married on Saturday. Anna's mom, LeAnn, is a media specialist at Brentwood High. Dad Jimmy is quarterbacks coach at Vandy (think Jay Cutler). Will grew up in Meadowlake and has scored his dream job already -- working with reptiles at the Nashville Zoo.
And how is this for being a great big sister (and new brother-in-law): Anna and Will postponed their honeymoon a day in order to see sister Jamie graduate from BHS on Sunday.
***
Congrats to all of the graduates of Brentwood, Ravenwood and Brentwood Academy high schools. Go far and don't let anyone or anything hold you back. (But consider coming back to Brentwood when you're ready, we need bright young people like you living, working and paying taxes here!) And remember, especially if you are heading off to a school without a posse of high school buddies -- this is a new start. Be whoever you want to be.***
Speaking of graduates, shout outs to five of the most wonderful young women I know, five Ravenwood grads I've had the pleasure to work with over the past few years as part of a church small group. 
Cory Smeltzer is headed to Auburn, where I expect her to be a leader the minute she steps on campus. Can't wait to see what awaits her there.
Lauren Walsh is headed to Eastern University outside of Philadelphia, Pa. Lauren, who has already been on two international mission trips may help save the world (or at least a little piece of it).
Stay well until Leanne Justus graduates from pharmacy school at Samford. She's definitely someone you want taking care of you.
Look for Chloe Morelli on Project Runway in a few years. Chloe switched from MTSU to UT-Martin after a late visit when she fell in love with the smaller campus. If only she had visited Emory & Henry ...
And finally, there's Nicole Brooks, who lives within shouting distance of the Williamson County line but graduated from Overton. Nicole is headed to the University of Evansville in Illinois and wants to take the business world by storm. No doubts from me that she will.
***
Treading on friend Kelly Gilfillan's blog turf a bit, the Leathers ventured outside the Brentwood Bubble yesterday. We heard Abe Lincoln give the Gettysburg Address and share his thoughts on life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; saw a short Civil War re-enactment; and paused in our busy lives to remember all those who have served in the armed forces. We also said hello to John Hartford and Jimmy Martin among others.
We had spotted an ad in the paper about a Memorial Day celebration at Spring Hill Cemetery in Madison. Being fans of cemeteries and the stories they tell, we decided to check it out. So glad we did.
Did I mention they invited everyone to a free cookout too? This is a definite "must-do" if you're in town next Memorial Day.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Taking Memorial Day Weekend off....
BrentWord is taking the rest of the weekend off for family and fun. Think we're headed to Spring Hill Cemetery for Memorial Day commemoration, then possibly north to Kentucky. When the Leathers decide to road trip, there's no telling where we'll end up.
Have a great holiday weekend and check back Tuesday for all the big news of the city we love.
Love,
Susan
Have a great holiday weekend and check back Tuesday for all the big news of the city we love.
Love,
Susan
Friday, May 22, 2009
Today @ BrentWord: Sports, music and more
How about those Brentwood Academy baseball players winning the Division II-A state tourney yesterday? And the Brentwood Bruins' boys soccer team won its way into the Class AAA Spring Fling finals Saturday. The match is at 2:30 p.m. in Murfreesboro.
Plus: BA's Alyson Hasty earned her second state pole vault title while Chenelle Terry came home with the high jump trophy. In Class AAA action, Ravenwood's Courtney Woodard, won the triple jump for the second consecutive year.
Congrats to all the Brentwood athletes who have competed in state competition this year!
Also posted this morning:
Plus: BA's Alyson Hasty earned her second state pole vault title while Chenelle Terry came home with the high jump trophy. In Class AAA action, Ravenwood's Courtney Woodard, won the triple jump for the second consecutive year.
Congrats to all the Brentwood athletes who have competed in state competition this year!
Also posted this morning:
- Memories from last night's WannaBeatles concert at the Martin Center
- A report from yesterday's Brentwood Future information meeting.
Still to come ... who knows! But check back today and over the weekend for updates and musings. (And if you missed yesterday's postings, scroll down for even more news (and a picture of Brad Pitt...)
No panties thrown but ...
The four guys on the makeshift stage didn't exactly look like the four famous skinny Brits but they sure sounded enough like them to keep the crowd smiling.
"Did you see that girl slow dancing with herself?" WannaBeatles lead singer Dennis Scott asked the mostly mature crowd at the Music & Memories benefit concert Thursday night at the Fifty Forward Martin Center.
Turns out Martin Center masseuse Kathy McFarlane, dressed in her '60s best, just couldn't stop herself. But most in the audience seemed content to sway in their chairs. Scott seemed a little disappointed that "no underwear is being thrown at us."
It really was a fun night and one that raised much-needed funds for the senior enrichment center. You see, the beautiful facility in the heart of affluent Brentwood suffers from a perception problem. People think it, and its members, are flush with cash. Not so. So fundraising is always a struggle.
If you have some extra funds to disburse, consider a visit to the center. There you can talk to the staff, volunteers and members and maybe throw a few of those extra ones, or hundreds, or thousands, its way.
And if you weren't at last night's concert, here's a taste of what you missed (to the tune of "Yesterday"):
Creme Brulee
I signed up for Jennie Craig today
They said as I was being weighed
"You've had too much Creme Brulee."
You have another chance to hear them June 28 at Crockett Park as part of the city's Summer Concert Series.
Sweet!
Have BrentWord worthy news to share? Email it to brentword@comcast.net
"Did you see that girl slow dancing with herself?" WannaBeatles lead singer Dennis Scott asked the mostly mature crowd at the Music & Memories benefit concert Thursday night at the Fifty Forward Martin Center.
Turns out Martin Center masseuse Kathy McFarlane, dressed in her '60s best, just couldn't stop herself. But most in the audience seemed content to sway in their chairs. Scott seemed a little disappointed that "no underwear is being thrown at us."
It really was a fun night and one that raised much-needed funds for the senior enrichment center. You see, the beautiful facility in the heart of affluent Brentwood suffers from a perception problem. People think it, and its members, are flush with cash. Not so. So fundraising is always a struggle.
If you have some extra funds to disburse, consider a visit to the center. There you can talk to the staff, volunteers and members and maybe throw a few of those extra ones, or hundreds, or thousands, its way.
And if you weren't at last night's concert, here's a taste of what you missed (to the tune of "Yesterday"):
Creme Brulee
I signed up for Jennie Craig today
They said as I was being weighed
"You've had too much Creme Brulee."
You have another chance to hear them June 28 at Crockett Park as part of the city's Summer Concert Series.
Sweet!
Have BrentWord worthy news to share? Email it to brentword@comcast.net
Public-private partnership key to "Future"
A healthy crowd attended the Brentwood Future information meeting Thursday hosted by Brentwood architect Walter Kiskaddon. Among those attending were architects, commercial and residential real estate professionals, Town Center redevelopment advocates, a landscape architect, an environmental expert, small business owners, chamber officials and several citizens.
No city officials, professional or elected, attended though many were invited.
Franklin attorney Julian Bibb presented an overview of Franklin Tomorrow, a non-profit, public-private organization formed in that Historic city less than 10 years ago. Since its inception, the organization has helped provide a focus and consensus to how Franklin should grow into its future while respecting its past.
"In the late '90s, there was a tremendous amount of bumping into each other of the preservationists and developers," Bibb told those gathered at the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber office. "There was a notion that this could be done better than butting heads."
Two key ingredients combined in Franklin Tomorrow's recipe for success: First, they had to discover "what the community wants it to be" and second, they had to "do it in a neutral stance."
A steering committee studied cities that had already put "visioning programs" in place, among them Chattanooga, the "Tri-Cities" of Bristol, Johnson City and Kingsport (in anticipation of the slowdown at Kodak, one of the area's main economic contributors), and several in Ohio.
Bibb said the committee discovered that in all locations where these programs were successful, "the city doesn't control it but is part of the program." The same is true of local chambers, he added.
To start, Franklin Tomorrow asked the city and local businesses and nonprofit organizations to provide funding, participation and support. Later a consulting firm hired.
Public input was vital, Bibb said, to the point that the city agreed to close down Main Street around the Historic Franklin Square for six hours. During that time, anyone could come and identify their personal priorities for the city's future.
The final result: A living, breathing plan and process for implementation that allowed for growth and change.
Franklin Tomorrow's vision and input is now reflected in city decisions on park plans, environmental plans and codes, Bibb said.
Throughout his talk, Bibb came back to the notion that Franklin Tomorrow's success was possible only through the public-private partnerships formed at the very start of the process.
"(Franklin) totally gave us access," he said of the steering committee.
Kiskaddon said his hope is that Brentwood can have a similar organization, one that can help determine "what Brentwood wants to be and where we want it to grow from here."
Kiskaddon had copies of both the Franklin Tomorrow and Brentwood 2020 plans and was asked how the two differ. Community input was key to the creation of Brentwood's comprehensive planning guide when it was adopted in 1999. A major update took place in 2006.
The general consensus of those attending was that the two could complement each other, but that an organization such as Brentwood Future would be a living, breathing entity that could enhance what the city is already doing.
"I feel passionate about this," Kiskaddon said, noting he is committed as a professional and a citizen to the project. He called those attending "ambassadors" and noted that while no city officials were there, he had heard from Mayor Betsy Crossley and Vice Mayor Rhea Little and anticipated interest from others as well.
"It really needs to be a public and private partnership," he said.
What's Next: A formal meeting in June or July.
In the meantime, here are links for background...
Brentwood 2020 Plan: www.brentwood-tn.org/index.aspx?page=171
Franklin Tomorrow: http://www.franklintomorrow.org/
No city officials, professional or elected, attended though many were invited.
Franklin attorney Julian Bibb presented an overview of Franklin Tomorrow, a non-profit, public-private organization formed in that Historic city less than 10 years ago. Since its inception, the organization has helped provide a focus and consensus to how Franklin should grow into its future while respecting its past.
"In the late '90s, there was a tremendous amount of bumping into each other of the preservationists and developers," Bibb told those gathered at the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber office. "There was a notion that this could be done better than butting heads."
Two key ingredients combined in Franklin Tomorrow's recipe for success: First, they had to discover "what the community wants it to be" and second, they had to "do it in a neutral stance."
A steering committee studied cities that had already put "visioning programs" in place, among them Chattanooga, the "Tri-Cities" of Bristol, Johnson City and Kingsport (in anticipation of the slowdown at Kodak, one of the area's main economic contributors), and several in Ohio.
Bibb said the committee discovered that in all locations where these programs were successful, "the city doesn't control it but is part of the program." The same is true of local chambers, he added.
To start, Franklin Tomorrow asked the city and local businesses and nonprofit organizations to provide funding, participation and support. Later a consulting firm hired.
Public input was vital, Bibb said, to the point that the city agreed to close down Main Street around the Historic Franklin Square for six hours. During that time, anyone could come and identify their personal priorities for the city's future.
The final result: A living, breathing plan and process for implementation that allowed for growth and change.
Franklin Tomorrow's vision and input is now reflected in city decisions on park plans, environmental plans and codes, Bibb said.
Throughout his talk, Bibb came back to the notion that Franklin Tomorrow's success was possible only through the public-private partnerships formed at the very start of the process.
"(Franklin) totally gave us access," he said of the steering committee.
Kiskaddon said his hope is that Brentwood can have a similar organization, one that can help determine "what Brentwood wants to be and where we want it to grow from here."
Kiskaddon had copies of both the Franklin Tomorrow and Brentwood 2020 plans and was asked how the two differ. Community input was key to the creation of Brentwood's comprehensive planning guide when it was adopted in 1999. A major update took place in 2006.
The general consensus of those attending was that the two could complement each other, but that an organization such as Brentwood Future would be a living, breathing entity that could enhance what the city is already doing.
"I feel passionate about this," Kiskaddon said, noting he is committed as a professional and a citizen to the project. He called those attending "ambassadors" and noted that while no city officials were there, he had heard from Mayor Betsy Crossley and Vice Mayor Rhea Little and anticipated interest from others as well.
"It really needs to be a public and private partnership," he said.
What's Next: A formal meeting in June or July.
In the meantime, here are links for background...
Brentwood 2020 Plan: www.brentwood-tn.org/index.aspx?page=171
Franklin Tomorrow: http://www.franklintomorrow.org/
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Few crimes to report this week
Brentwood Police Department's Cpt. Jeff Hughes just sent the weekly crime wrapup. There's good news and bad.
First the good: It's been a quiet week in ol' Brentwood. The bad? Many of the crimes reported might have been prevented.
Let's hope there's nothing to report from next week's crime log!
First the good: It's been a quiet week in ol' Brentwood. The bad? Many of the crimes reported might have been prevented.
- On May 18, a wallet and its contents were reported stole from an unlocked locker at the Maryland Farms YMCA.
- Also on May 18, a woman's purse and wallet were stolen from her locked car at Civitan Park off Concord after someone broke out the passenger side window.
- On May 17, a pressure washer was reportedly stolen from a home on Post Oak Circle in McGavock Farms.
- Most car burglars act on impulse. Keep your belongings with you or out of sight. Car floorboards, dashboards, and seats ARE NOT good places to leave items such as purses and wallets; laptop computer bags, briefcases, and backpacks; shopping bags and cell phones and MP3 players. According to Hughes and Officer Mark Wood, GPS devices have become one of the hottest targets. Remember: If you cannot take your items with you, hide them out of sight in your trunk or other concealable area.
- Leaving your keys anywhere in your vehicle is an invitation to a car burglar. Keep in mind that if you think you have a great hiding place for a spare key, a thief has probably thought of that hiding place as well.
- And remember that most car burglaries in Brentwood occur at people's homes. The police urge everyone to "Lock your car doors. Keep your valuables in the trunk or inside the house. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR KEYS IN THE IGNITION even when your car is in the garage or your driveway. Lock your garage walk-in door and keep the garage bay door shut."
Let's hope there's nothing to report from next week's crime log!
A river runs through it ...
One of my favorite all-time movies is A River Runs Through It. The fact that Brad Pitt is one of the 1992 film's stars has nothing, well, very little, to do with the fact.My own two boys, Martin and Thomas, often remind me of brothers Norman (played by Craig Sheffer, left) and Paul McLean (Pitt), though I don't expect Thomas to become a professional gambler (or fly-fisherman either, for that matter). He does, however, have the potential, to be like Brad, either through his love of theater or by helping rebuild New Orleans since studying environmental architecture at Tulane is one of the many college options he's considering.
Though Martin will get to the Crescent City to start the rebuilding before his younger brother -- he leaves next week for a summer job leading mission trips in New Orleans -- he's still more like Norman than Paul (but just as good looking as Brad, of course).
What does all of this have to do with the price of beans in China? Nothing except that I loved seeing Brad Pitt being interviewed yesterday on NBC's Today show from Cannes, France, and I was surprised to read that the Harpeth River flows through Brentwood.
A story published in yesterday's Brentwood Journal on the city's sewer improvement project shares lots of great information. But I laughed when reading about the work done on the Turner Farm along the "Harpeth River."
That would be the Little Harpeth, which according to the Harpeth River Watershed Association (http://www.harpethriver.com)/ is one of five tributaries to the "Big" Harpeth. The others are the West Harpeth, the South Harpeth, Turnbull Creek and Jones Creek.
Regardless, if you missed it, it's a story worth reading. Just add "Little" to the Harpeth River references and it, too, will flow nicely.
Here's the link:
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090520/COUNTY0903/905200332/1164/COUNTY09/New+sewer+connections+on+way
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Students mourn man of magic
The obituary isn't even posted yet, but students of Mr. Jim Dale, a most magical substitute teacher at Ravenwood High School, have already created an "RIP Mr. Dale" page on Facebook that perhaps tells his story better than anything that will be printed in a newspaper.
To learn what an impact he made, consider these postings (and for the uninitiated, I'm sure most of these were text messages from phones, so please excuse the typos, etc.):
When Mr. Dale told me about when he got diagnosed with Cancer, he said this and my mom and I have found it so inspiring and I remember Tricia crying when she heard him say it, "My doctor told me I should pray and tell God about my Cancer. I said no. I told my cancer about god and it knew better." He loves everyone so much at Ravenwood, he told me another time, "god didnt bless me in some ways but he did bless me with a big group of beatiful children?" I asked him how many children and he smiled and told me "A whole school of them, and then some." That man is my hero and always will be. Mr. Dale I really do love you and I hope every substitute teacher and teacher remembers you as the man who "treated us like adults" and "respected each and every one of us", and with all the love in the world.I miss you so much and send my love to the above. -- Nicole Marrero
Mr. Dale, you were my favorite art sub! I love you! and I will miss you! -- Jessica Hamilton
Mr. Dale you were my favorite sub EVER. Every time I'd go into a class and see you id would be like YESSS! MR. DALE ARE YOU GOING TO DO MAGIC TRICKS FOR US?!?!?! and you would say maybe when you all are done! Man Mr. dale I'm going to miss you thank you for brightening up my life and others as well. -- Adam Toudjine
i remember one time he "forgot" to give us the work that our teacher had left for us, and he did the trick where he blew some bubbles and caught one, then turned it into a glass ball. RIP Mr. Dale, you will be greatly missed at Ravenwood and i'm sure everywhere else as well. you were truly an inspiration to always do the right thing, i thank you for that. -- Taylor Francis
I remembered he was subbing for Mr. Sliva one day and he got out his magic beans and did the trick and then told us that one day when he subbed for Page High he did the trick and one of the students wanted to try the magic beans trick so he passed them over to the student. When he tired the trick he didn't catch them on the paper so the students got down on their hands and knees,crawled around on the floor looking for the beans... haha.I thought it was really fun and would share it with yall. -- Mandy Burton
R.I.P. Mr. Dale you were an inspiration to us all. You taught us that we shouldn't take life so seriously that we miss out on new opportunities. Every now and again we need to just enjoy the magical moments in our lives. -- Quinton Harris
I never was able to do the magic beans trick. And I always wanted to punch people in the face when they tried to explain how he did all of his magic. I remember once he was our sub in theater and I was talking about a Cyanide and Happiness comic I saw that (basically) said "I have to stop having phone sex. I have hearing aids!"I said it pretty quietly to, but always on his Game Mr. Dale leans in, looks mildly confused, and says "You know..i just don't understand that phone sex."We all almost died. All 5 of us. I wish more people were in the room to hear it.-- Meagan Dwyer
Services are Thursday at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home, 660 Thompson Lane, in Nashville (more specifically Berry Hill, between I-65 and Nolensville Road. Get off at the Armory Drive exit as though you are going to Baja Burrito. Turn right onto Thompson. Funeral home is on the left).
To understand why he had such an impact, check out his website, www.jimdale.net
So much news, so little time....
I've been out of the "home office" all day and am supposed to be breezing down to Cool Springs as I type. But here are a few morsels and links to read until I have time for a proper post:
Roger Shirley, a fellow Emory & Henry College alum, passed along this email to constituents from school board member Terry Leve:
On another note, I am pleased that my expressions of concern to the Central Office have led to the immediate removal of the Young Adult Library Services Association's (YALSA) Best Books for Young Adults list as the recommended summer reading guide at both Ravenwood and Brentwood high schools. YALSA's list does not reflect the recommended reading list published by Williamson County Schools. To be perfectly blunt, many of the selections were extraordinarily salacious, sensual and sensationalistic. Out of deference to those who do not wish to be burdened with more specific particulars, I choose to refrain from providing greater detail; however, for those who are concerned, I will provide examples of titles, authors, publishers, ISBN numbers, summaries and/or selected passages to those who individually request such information of me. There is no secret here. Rather, I believe many would prefer not to have such information sent to their home or work e-mails.
I have definite opinions on this but no time to share them at the moment. Stay tuned. In the meantime, Maria Giordano, Williamson A.M.'s ace education reporter, has already posted a story on it. Check out the link:
tennessean.com/article/20090520/COUNTY09/90520032/+Salacious++book+list+removed+from+school+web+sites
Also, Mitch Kline has this update on Timothy McGowan, the Ravenwood senior killed earlier this week in a car crash:
tennessean.com/article/20090520/COUNTY09/90520017/Update++Funeral+set+for+Ravenwood+student+killed+in+crash
And finally, I understand Ravenwood had another loss today, a beloved substitute teacher. Again, let's keep that entire community in our prayers.
Roger Shirley, a fellow Emory & Henry College alum, passed along this email to constituents from school board member Terry Leve:
On another note, I am pleased that my expressions of concern to the Central Office have led to the immediate removal of the Young Adult Library Services Association's (YALSA) Best Books for Young Adults list as the recommended summer reading guide at both Ravenwood and Brentwood high schools. YALSA's list does not reflect the recommended reading list published by Williamson County Schools. To be perfectly blunt, many of the selections were extraordinarily salacious, sensual and sensationalistic. Out of deference to those who do not wish to be burdened with more specific particulars, I choose to refrain from providing greater detail; however, for those who are concerned, I will provide examples of titles, authors, publishers, ISBN numbers, summaries and/or selected passages to those who individually request such information of me. There is no secret here. Rather, I believe many would prefer not to have such information sent to their home or work e-mails.
I have definite opinions on this but no time to share them at the moment. Stay tuned. In the meantime, Maria Giordano, Williamson A.M.'s ace education reporter, has already posted a story on it. Check out the link:
tennessean.com/article/20090520/COUNTY09/90520032/+Salacious++book+list+removed+from+school+web+sites
Also, Mitch Kline has this update on Timothy McGowan, the Ravenwood senior killed earlier this week in a car crash:
tennessean.com/article/20090520/COUNTY09/90520017/Update++Funeral+set+for+Ravenwood+student+killed+in+crash
And finally, I understand Ravenwood had another loss today, a beloved substitute teacher. Again, let's keep that entire community in our prayers.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Update on Ravenwood loss
Staff writer Mitchell Kline at Williamson A.M. has just posted a story on the death of Timothy J. McGowan, 18 (see my earlier post for details):
"NOLENSVILLE — A Ravenwood High School student crashed and was killed while being pursued by police last night.
Timothy J. McGowan, 18, died shortly after the Toyota Camry he was driving sideswiped another vehicle and flipped into a ditch on Rocky Fork Road, near Nolensville Road, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol."
For the entire story, visit www.tennessean.com/article/20090519/COUNTY09/90519005/Ravenwood+senior+killed+in+crash+during+police+pursuit+www.Tennessean.com
"NOLENSVILLE — A Ravenwood High School student crashed and was killed while being pursued by police last night.
Timothy J. McGowan, 18, died shortly after the Toyota Camry he was driving sideswiped another vehicle and flipped into a ditch on Rocky Fork Road, near Nolensville Road, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol."
For the entire story, visit www.tennessean.com/article/20090519/COUNTY09/90519005/Ravenwood+senior+killed+in+crash+during+police+pursuit+www.Tennessean.com
Busy Thursday and beyond
It's time to get out your calendar, Blackberry, whatever and mark down some important times and dates. For starters, here are a few opportunities you may want to consider on Thursday:
Looking further out, at 6 p.m. June 9, the Environmental Quality Coordinating Committee is hosting a "public input session" designed to gather input and ideas from people like you and me interested in environmental issues affecting the Brentwood community. In the meantime, please go ahead and participate in an online survey the committee has designed to help get feedback from city residents. You'll find it at www.brentwood-tn.org/greensurvey. I'll have more on this meeting closer to the actual date.
And finally, Mayor Betsy Crossley tells me she's asked City Manager Mike Walker to schedule a meeting on June 18 for Town Center land and business owners as well as any else interested in the area's redevelopment. While she cannot attend Thursday's Brentwood Future meeting (she had already committed to volunteer at The Martin Center), she tells me "I don't want to stop any dialog about Town Center. Let's keep the dialog moving forward."
Should have more details on this meeting next week if not sooner.
- Want to hear the nitty gritty about what the city commission will discuss at its next meeting? Then the 9 a.m. City Commission Information Meeting is for you. It takes place at the Brentwood Municipal Building's board room, 5211 Maryland Way. And a gentle reminder that the regular commission meeting has been moved to next Tuesday, May 26, because of Memorial Day.
- Another informational meeting, this one to discuss the possible formation of "Brentwood Future," a group that reportedly is shaping itself after the non-profit Franklin Tomorrow (http://www.franklintomorrow.org/), is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. Organized by local architect Walter Kiskaddon, AIA, this one takes place at the opposite end of the municipal building in the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber of Commerce offices. I've put out emails to several people on the invite list and hopefully will have more information and thoughts about it soon.
- After the Brentwood Future meeting, you can switch gears and have a little fun at the Music and Memories at the Martin benefit concert featuring the WannaBeatles (see yesterday's post for details and the Top 10 reasons you should go).
Looking further out, at 6 p.m. June 9, the Environmental Quality Coordinating Committee is hosting a "public input session" designed to gather input and ideas from people like you and me interested in environmental issues affecting the Brentwood community. In the meantime, please go ahead and participate in an online survey the committee has designed to help get feedback from city residents. You'll find it at www.brentwood-tn.org/greensurvey. I'll have more on this meeting closer to the actual date.
And finally, Mayor Betsy Crossley tells me she's asked City Manager Mike Walker to schedule a meeting on June 18 for Town Center land and business owners as well as any else interested in the area's redevelopment. While she cannot attend Thursday's Brentwood Future meeting (she had already committed to volunteer at The Martin Center), she tells me "I don't want to stop any dialog about Town Center. Let's keep the dialog moving forward."
Should have more details on this meeting next week if not sooner.
Another loss for Ravenwood
The Ravenwood High School community apparently suffered another loss Monday night. A senior was killed in a car accident on Rocky Fork Road in Nolensville.
It's been a rough year for students, faculty and staff on the east Brentwood campus, as several students have died much too too early from illness or accidents.
Nolensville Police Chief Paul Rigsby confirmed there was a fatality Monday night but said the investigation has been turned over to the Tennessee Highway Patrol. I'll report back with details as soon as I can get them.
In the meantime, let's all keep the Ravenwood community and the young man's family in our prayers. This exam/graduation week is already a stressful one and a loss such as this cannot make it any easier.
It's been a rough year for students, faculty and staff on the east Brentwood campus, as several students have died much too too early from illness or accidents.
Nolensville Police Chief Paul Rigsby confirmed there was a fatality Monday night but said the investigation has been turned over to the Tennessee Highway Patrol. I'll report back with details as soon as I can get them.
In the meantime, let's all keep the Ravenwood community and the young man's family in our prayers. This exam/graduation week is already a stressful one and a loss such as this cannot make it any easier.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Top 10 Reasons to be at Music & Memories
Now, some may ask: Why should I pay to see the WannaBeatles at the FiftyForward Martin Center Thursday night when I can see them for free on June 28th at Crockett Park? Let us count the reasons....
2. Over the past three years, the Music and Memories at the Martin benefit concert has proven to be a fundraiser worth far more than its very affordable ticket price (a mere $35).
3. Can you spell M-O-S-Q-U-I-T-O-E-S?
4. Because I'm four months from turning 50, the age you can officially become a Martin Center member (FiftyForward, get it?) so I'm taking this ticket promotion task seriously!
5. Because Martin Center's executive director Joyce Keistler is a great lady who needs to keep her job.
6. At the Martin Center, you'll be sitting in an intimate audience instead of contending with all those pesky teenagers at the park.
7. Did we mention that Mallory Lane Wine and Spirits is one of the concert's sponsors, the operative word here being wine?
8. There are only two real Beatles left but at the Martin Center you can hear four of them.
9. Because two WannaBeatles concerts are better than one.
10. And finally, because you wannabe!
Tickets for Thursday's concert are only $35 and can be purchased at the center, 960 Heritage Way, just north of Concord Road. Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 7. For more information, call 376-0102.
For more information on the center, visit http://www.themartincentertn.org/.
Yellow light in the sky a welcome sight
OK, so it may be 49 degrees at 7:27 this Monday morning, but the sun is out. Let me repeat that. THE SUN IS OUT.
Even better news, Weather.com's 10-day forecast for Brentwood shows three straight days of glorious weather. And even though thunderstorms are possible for the following seven days, at least all of the weather icons show at least partial sunshine.
Don't know about you but this is the best news I've heard since Baskin Robbins' 31-cent-scoop night back in April. That and the fact that despite the bum weather, the United Methodist Women at Brentwood Methodist still made over $1000 on their yard sale Saturday.
What good news do you have to share from the weekend? Please post it here! And check back during the day for more news from around the town, including details on Thursday night's planned meeting on the future of Brentwood.
Even better news, Weather.com's 10-day forecast for Brentwood shows three straight days of glorious weather. And even though thunderstorms are possible for the following seven days, at least all of the weather icons show at least partial sunshine.
Don't know about you but this is the best news I've heard since Baskin Robbins' 31-cent-scoop night back in April. That and the fact that despite the bum weather, the United Methodist Women at Brentwood Methodist still made over $1000 on their yard sale Saturday.
What good news do you have to share from the weekend? Please post it here! And check back during the day for more news from around the town, including details on Thursday night's planned meeting on the future of Brentwood.
Friday, May 15, 2009
No internet's no fun
If you were in town this afternoon, you know a quick hit storm hit pretty fast and furious just before 3. And it knocked out Comcast internet connections.
Not a pretty picture for at least one friend, who's real job depends on the internet connection in her home office in Brentwood Hills. Not happy wouldn't begin to describe the thoughts she shared with me as she knew she was going to miss a huge deadline.
When our home internet still wasn't connecting at close to 10, I put in the requisite call to Comcast. It took awhile but finally we got help and resolution.
Life is good again. Now, tell me again how we survived without the internet?
Not a pretty picture for at least one friend, who's real job depends on the internet connection in her home office in Brentwood Hills. Not happy wouldn't begin to describe the thoughts she shared with me as she knew she was going to miss a huge deadline.
When our home internet still wasn't connecting at close to 10, I put in the requisite call to Comcast. It took awhile but finally we got help and resolution.
Life is good again. Now, tell me again how we survived without the internet?
***
What did I miss while I was disconnected? Well, among other things I learned that a big pancake breakfast is planned next month at O'Charley's to benefit the DARE program in our schools. Details will be hot off the griddle as soon as I get them.***
Have BrentWord worthy news to share? Just email it to brentword@comcast.net and be sure to include your name and telephone number. Thanks!
"Citizens' honor late city historian
When Vance Little died in late March, the city lost its historian and one of its best friends. Perhaps the saddest part about his death, which came too soon after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, was that he didn't live to see the Brentwood Room, the local history room planned in our expanded library, named for him. Luckily he did know about the plans and those that he told know how honored and proud he was about it.
On Thursday, the Citizens for Brentwood Green Space announced a donation to the Brentwood Library for the T. Vance Little Room in the amount of $1,125.
“Vance Little was a treasured resource in Brentwood and a tremendous friend to our organization,” founder Stephen Prince said. “Whether it was allowing us to use his facilities for meetings, or providing us with invaluable insights on ways of preserving green space, Vance was always there when we needed help. It’s an honor to be able to help preserve his legacy in the community.”
Formerly known as the Brentwood Room, the T. Vance Little Room will be a place where visitors will be able to conduct research about Brentwood’s history on their own. “The donations we received for this new addition at the library were above and beyond what we expected or hoped for,” Gil Hutchinson, the group's president added. “We thank all those that donated in honor of Vance’s memory.”
“Vance Little was a great friend of the Brentwood Library, and the many contributions we have received in his memory show that he was a great friend to the whole community. The contribution of the Citizens for Brentwood Green Space is especially significant because Vance helped that group get started by providing them with meeting space," Library Director Chuck Sherrill said. "The T. Vance Little Room at the Brentwood Library will continue his tradition of providing an elegant setting for community activity. We are most grateful to the members of Green Space for making this generous gift to the library.”
Limited numbers of Vance's final book, Gently Flows the Harpeth, published right before his death, is now on sale at the Brentwood Library and at the Brentwood Municipal Building. The book, published in conjunction with the city's 40th anniversary is $40.
The Citizens for Brentwood Green Space, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to preserving open space in the form of parks, trails, historic sites, and flood plains while being sensitive to the rights of landowners and developers. For more information, visit http://www.brentwoodgreenspace.org/
In photo, from left: Gil Hutchinson, Chuck Sherrill, Bert Bosse
Junk, jewels around town Saturday
Happy Friday. We made it. Now, if only the rain will hold off for all the neighborhood yard sales this weekend.
Did you see this listings in today's Tennessean classified section? If you're on the prowl for something, anything, chances are you can find it in Meadowlake, Chestnut Springs, Foxboro, Highland View, or Carondelet subdivisions tomorrow. All are hosting neighborhood-wide sales.
My carport alone is already stuffed with items for the United Methodist Women's Sale being held in conjunction with the Meadowlake one. All proceeds from our sale will go to missions, so come and make a huge donation to the cause and take home a carload of great stuff too.
Don't you agree "BrentWord presents the Carondelet July 4th Extravaganza" has a nice ring to it? Of course, it would only be fitting if they invited me back as grand marshal. My pearls and gloves are ready and waiting.
A night at the Theatre everyone?
Don't have plans this evening? How about a night at the theater?
Towne Centre Theatre opens Sabrina Fair tonight for a three-week run. This modern-day, well, minus 50 years or so, Cinderella tale has been a film and stage favorite for years. Now we can see it right here in Brentwood.
Curtain time for evening performances is 8 p.m., with matinees at 2:30 p.m.
You can find everything you need to know, including information on auditions this weekend for the theater's next show, Into The Woods, at http://www.townecentretheatre.com/.
Coming soon to BrentWord:
Did you see this listings in today's Tennessean classified section? If you're on the prowl for something, anything, chances are you can find it in Meadowlake, Chestnut Springs, Foxboro, Highland View, or Carondelet subdivisions tomorrow. All are hosting neighborhood-wide sales.
My carport alone is already stuffed with items for the United Methodist Women's Sale being held in conjunction with the Meadowlake one. All proceeds from our sale will go to missions, so come and make a huge donation to the cause and take home a carload of great stuff too.
- Meadowlake and adjoining Iroquois Estates are located directly behind BUMC and Otter Creek Church of Christ, and across Franklin Road from the Brentwood Place (Kroger) shopping center. Official sale hours are 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Foxboro's sale opens at 8 a.m. The neighborhood is located off Concord Road just east of Wilson Pike (on the left if heading east on Concord).
- Highland View, located across from Scales Elementary School off Murray Lane, starts at 2 p.m.
- Chestnut Springs is off Concord Road, five miles east of I-65. Turn right into the neighborhood from Concord.
- The residents in Carondelet must feel sleep deprived, as their sale doesn't start until 9 a.m. The good news is it does run until 3, so you might want to hit one or two of the others before heading here. The neighborhood is located off of Wilson Pike between Church Street and Concord Road.
***
Speaking of Carondelet, one of my favorite Brentwood neighborhoods, I haven't heard back from its infamous Fourth of July coordinator Michelle Lasley on my offer to be corporate sponsor of its annual parade.Don't you agree "BrentWord presents the Carondelet July 4th Extravaganza" has a nice ring to it? Of course, it would only be fitting if they invited me back as grand marshal. My pearls and gloves are ready and waiting.
A night at the Theatre everyone?
Don't have plans this evening? How about a night at the theater?
Towne Centre Theatre opens Sabrina Fair tonight for a three-week run. This modern-day, well, minus 50 years or so, Cinderella tale has been a film and stage favorite for years. Now we can see it right here in Brentwood.
Curtain time for evening performances is 8 p.m., with matinees at 2:30 p.m.
You can find everything you need to know, including information on auditions this weekend for the theater's next show, Into The Woods, at http://www.townecentretheatre.com/.
Coming soon to BrentWord:
- Citizens for Brentwood Green Space make generous donation to the Brentwood Library in memory of Vance Little. And the library's one spot you can buy the late historian's new book. Details to come.
- An interesting meeting is being planned next Thursday, May 21. Architect Walter Kiskaddon has invited city and county officials, business leaders and owners, and an array of other interested and invested folks to an "introductory meeting" at the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber's offices to discuss the city's future, specifically the Town Center area. Check back for details, links and more.
- I've heard through the grapevine that Vittles restaurant, the family-friendly restaurant in Merchant's Walk shopping center, may be planning something special for it's seventh anniversary. Always looking for an excuse to eat, I may have to head over for catfish today to get the scoop. Stay tuned for details!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Say, we're 'Historic' too, and lots more
While the election of a new mayor and vice-mayor stole the headlines from Monday night's City Commission meeting (scroll down to Monday night's post for details), there's lots of other news to report. For instance ....
Bank a welcome sight
Rick English shared with the commission that Red Mountain Bank will open in three to four weeks at the corner of Franklin Road and Maryland Way. All who have passed or turned that corner in the past few years know what an improvement the bank has made since acquiring the forlorn-looking building that most recently was home to dry cleaning and computer repair businesses.
English shared that Red Mountain has spent $18,000 on landscaping alone. A grand opening is planned in late June.
Historic Franklin move over
While recognizing her request was late in the city's budget-making process, Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber president Cindi Parmenter asked the commission to consider using a portion of its motel tax to support the Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau (http://www.visitwilliamson.com/). She held up the bureau's latest tourism brochure that only mentions Historic Franklin on its cover "because we are not supporting the CVB," she said. (The county seat just loves it when people use that capital "H". It's Historic, you know.)
With city support, Brentwood would hold more seats on the bureau's board, could possibly be home to a new visitor's center and could get a piece of the tourism organization's $1.1 million budget, Parmenter said.
"It is an investment, not just an expenditure," she added. Brentwood has more hotel/motel rooms than any other city in the county, making the request seem reasonable.
A November election ahead?
City resident and active chamber member Chris Bosen asked commission members to discuss turnout at last week's municipal election, and what each thought of holding the non-partisan event in conjunction with state or national races as a way to increase voter interest.
Of the commissioners who responded, none spoke in favor of making a change. Anne Dunn cited partisan interference in the past as one reason the commission years ago voted to have its own election day.
Commissioner Joe Sweeney, however, did suggest that Bosen and the chamber undertake a study and to share the results with the commission. A step in the right direction.
Picayune, Miss. pays it forward
Did you know if a natural disaster strikes Brentwood and chaos and crime run rampant in the aftermath, all we have to do is make a phone call to Mississippi and reinforcements will be on their way?
This comforting bit of information was shared by Police Chief Ricky Watson as he presented a proclamation and plaque given to the city from its counterpart in Picayune, Miss. Nineteen of Brentwood's finest went to help out there immediately after Hurricane Katrina.
Watson said the area had looting, assaults and no services after the storm.
"It's just undescribable what you could see as you flew over," he said of his visit to check on his crew while they were there.
Greg Mitchell, Picayune's mayor, called his proclamation a "pay it forward" one, Watson said. Let's hope we never have to cash it in.
Saying goodbye to the Judge
There was a reception Tuesday for retiring City Judge Thomas Schlater who served all but two of the past 40 years on the city's bench. Haven't heard, but I hope all of the teenagers he has taken licenses from over the years didin't catch wind of it. It could have gotten ugly.
Seriously though, I bet more than a few of them would love to shake his hand and say thanks now that a little bit of time, or in Judge Schlater's case, a lot, has passed.
What else? Well, Comcast is suing the city but apparently we don't have to worry about it ... yet.
Have BrentWord worthy news to share? Email me at brentword@comcast.net.
Bank a welcome sight
Rick English shared with the commission that Red Mountain Bank will open in three to four weeks at the corner of Franklin Road and Maryland Way. All who have passed or turned that corner in the past few years know what an improvement the bank has made since acquiring the forlorn-looking building that most recently was home to dry cleaning and computer repair businesses.
English shared that Red Mountain has spent $18,000 on landscaping alone. A grand opening is planned in late June.
Historic Franklin move over
While recognizing her request was late in the city's budget-making process, Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber president Cindi Parmenter asked the commission to consider using a portion of its motel tax to support the Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau (http://www.visitwilliamson.com/). She held up the bureau's latest tourism brochure that only mentions Historic Franklin on its cover "because we are not supporting the CVB," she said. (The county seat just loves it when people use that capital "H". It's Historic, you know.)
With city support, Brentwood would hold more seats on the bureau's board, could possibly be home to a new visitor's center and could get a piece of the tourism organization's $1.1 million budget, Parmenter said.
"It is an investment, not just an expenditure," she added. Brentwood has more hotel/motel rooms than any other city in the county, making the request seem reasonable.
A November election ahead?
City resident and active chamber member Chris Bosen asked commission members to discuss turnout at last week's municipal election, and what each thought of holding the non-partisan event in conjunction with state or national races as a way to increase voter interest.
Of the commissioners who responded, none spoke in favor of making a change. Anne Dunn cited partisan interference in the past as one reason the commission years ago voted to have its own election day.
Commissioner Joe Sweeney, however, did suggest that Bosen and the chamber undertake a study and to share the results with the commission. A step in the right direction.
Picayune, Miss. pays it forward
Did you know if a natural disaster strikes Brentwood and chaos and crime run rampant in the aftermath, all we have to do is make a phone call to Mississippi and reinforcements will be on their way?
This comforting bit of information was shared by Police Chief Ricky Watson as he presented a proclamation and plaque given to the city from its counterpart in Picayune, Miss. Nineteen of Brentwood's finest went to help out there immediately after Hurricane Katrina.
Watson said the area had looting, assaults and no services after the storm.
"It's just undescribable what you could see as you flew over," he said of his visit to check on his crew while they were there.
Greg Mitchell, Picayune's mayor, called his proclamation a "pay it forward" one, Watson said. Let's hope we never have to cash it in.
Saying goodbye to the Judge
There was a reception Tuesday for retiring City Judge Thomas Schlater who served all but two of the past 40 years on the city's bench. Haven't heard, but I hope all of the teenagers he has taken licenses from over the years didin't catch wind of it. It could have gotten ugly.
Seriously though, I bet more than a few of them would love to shake his hand and say thanks now that a little bit of time, or in Judge Schlater's case, a lot, has passed.
What else? Well, Comcast is suing the city but apparently we don't have to worry about it ... yet.
Have BrentWord worthy news to share? Email me at brentword@comcast.net.
Keep those prayers coming for Joe
Just received an email from City Manager Mike Walker with an update on our Planning Director Joe Lassus. He and his family continue to need our prayers and good thoughts.
Mike reports that while the core tumor in Joe's brain was removed, the doctor said small areas remain. He is expected to start radiation and chemotherapy treatments next week. He will not be able to return to work for at least three months.
"Naomi says that Joe is functioning very well at home with most activities except for his speech. The doctor told her that you are never able to remove a tumor completely – the goal is to keep it dormant and not grow back.
"Please keep Joe and Naomi in your prayers in the weeks ahead," Mike writes.
Will do
Mike reports that while the core tumor in Joe's brain was removed, the doctor said small areas remain. He is expected to start radiation and chemotherapy treatments next week. He will not be able to return to work for at least three months.
"Naomi says that Joe is functioning very well at home with most activities except for his speech. The doctor told her that you are never able to remove a tumor completely – the goal is to keep it dormant and not grow back.
"Please keep Joe and Naomi in your prayers in the weeks ahead," Mike writes.
Will do
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Beautiful day derails blogging ....
Just read that Tuesday is the best day of the week, the day people get the most done because they're not still recuperating from the weekend, it's not quite hump day, not one day before Friday, or one day until the weekend.
The good news is I got a lot done today. And enjoyed the first truly beautiful day we've had in quite awhile. The bad news? All the promised postings are going to have to wait until tomorrow for delivery.
But here are a few things to chew over while you're waiting for the latest, greatest breaking news in Brentwood....
1. Does anyone remember the name of the Miss USA winner, or even what she looked like? Didn't think so. Bet you know who came in second though.
2. My Cook's Pest Control guy was out yesterday. He asked if we'd had any issues. I asked if he could get rid of the moles. He said the company is working on something. Made my day.
3. Meadowlake subdivision is having its annual neighborhood yard sale Saturday. Time to get out those anti-rain dance shoes again. If your Brentwood neighborhood is having a big sale, let me know so I can spread the news.
4. Check out Kelly Gilfillan's latest blog posting (www.outsidethebrentwoodbubble.com) about an Extreme Home Makeover volunteers from Brentwood Baptist completed last weekend. And if your church, civic group or other organization is doing neat stuff, let us know about it.
5. I'm on the prowl for neat (but cheap!) graduation gifts. Have ideas? Please share.
Check back Wednesday for real news from the streets.
The good news is I got a lot done today. And enjoyed the first truly beautiful day we've had in quite awhile. The bad news? All the promised postings are going to have to wait until tomorrow for delivery.
But here are a few things to chew over while you're waiting for the latest, greatest breaking news in Brentwood....
1. Does anyone remember the name of the Miss USA winner, or even what she looked like? Didn't think so. Bet you know who came in second though.
2. My Cook's Pest Control guy was out yesterday. He asked if we'd had any issues. I asked if he could get rid of the moles. He said the company is working on something. Made my day.
3. Meadowlake subdivision is having its annual neighborhood yard sale Saturday. Time to get out those anti-rain dance shoes again. If your Brentwood neighborhood is having a big sale, let me know so I can spread the news.
4. Check out Kelly Gilfillan's latest blog posting (www.outsidethebrentwoodbubble.com) about an Extreme Home Makeover volunteers from Brentwood Baptist completed last weekend. And if your church, civic group or other organization is doing neat stuff, let us know about it.
5. I'm on the prowl for neat (but cheap!) graduation gifts. Have ideas? Please share.
Check back Wednesday for real news from the streets.
Monday, May 11, 2009
It's Madam Mayor now
Betsy Crossley is Brentwood's new mayor.
The first-term commissioner was elected by her fellow board members in a 4-3 vote Monday night. Paul Webb, sworn into his second term just minutes before, received three votes.
And in a surprise action, the commission elected its newest member, Rhea Little III, as the city's vice mayor. Little received five votes; Joe Reagan two.
Crossley and Little will serve two-year terms. The next City Commission election is in 2011.
Immediately following the elections, Crossley took her first action as mayor. She called for a 10-minute recess to regroup.
Popular thought among commission watchers was that the mayor's seat would be decided between Webb and long-term commissioner and former mayor Joe Sweeney.
BrentWord will have complete coverage of the meeting on Tuesday.
The first-term commissioner was elected by her fellow board members in a 4-3 vote Monday night. Paul Webb, sworn into his second term just minutes before, received three votes.
And in a surprise action, the commission elected its newest member, Rhea Little III, as the city's vice mayor. Little received five votes; Joe Reagan two.
Crossley and Little will serve two-year terms. The next City Commission election is in 2011.
Immediately following the elections, Crossley took her first action as mayor. She called for a 10-minute recess to regroup.
Popular thought among commission watchers was that the mayor's seat would be decided between Webb and long-term commissioner and former mayor Joe Sweeney.
BrentWord will have complete coverage of the meeting on Tuesday.
***
Also coming tomorrow:- Late city historian Vance Little's final coffee table book is now available for $40 -- a fitting price for a book published to help promote the city's 40th anniversary.
- Why the city should seriously consider supporting the county's Convention and Visitors Bureau
- Should Brentwood ever need help dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster, the city of Picayune, Miss. is ready to help.
Have BrentWord worthy news to share? Please email it to brentword@comcast.net!
Mud bowl musings
A dark and stormy morning threatened to take all the fun out of Saturday's Iroquois Steeplechase, always a highlight of the Leathers' otherwise boring social life.
One of my husband's high school friends first snared the prime corner lot in the Topside tailgating area 10 years ago. We joined the group of mostly Florence, Ala. natives in 2001, our first Tennessee spring.
The Topside area's always been great, because it has tended to attract a bit older, more "refined" group of tailgaters. This year, however, there was a definite shift in the demographics, and the shift didn't lean our way. Because Topside was one of the only tailgating areas not completely overtaken with mud, a lot of the younger crowd from the midfield poured in. And some had been literally pouring it in since the wee hours from the looks of it.
Seeing so many Brentwood area high school students there this year added to the discomfort. While I saw a lot of underage college students just home from their respective universities, too, there is a big difference between a high school junior and a college one.
Hope and trust everyone made it home OK.
One of my husband's high school friends first snared the prime corner lot in the Topside tailgating area 10 years ago. We joined the group of mostly Florence, Ala. natives in 2001, our first Tennessee spring.
The Topside area's always been great, because it has tended to attract a bit older, more "refined" group of tailgaters. This year, however, there was a definite shift in the demographics, and the shift didn't lean our way. Because Topside was one of the only tailgating areas not completely overtaken with mud, a lot of the younger crowd from the midfield poured in. And some had been literally pouring it in since the wee hours from the looks of it.
Seeing so many Brentwood area high school students there this year added to the discomfort. While I saw a lot of underage college students just home from their respective universities, too, there is a big difference between a high school junior and a college one.
Hope and trust everyone made it home OK.
***
Despite the mud, the day itself turned out to be far better than anyone predicted. After a little late morning drizzle, the weather cooperated and the majority in the crowd took home a little sunburn to show for it.
By far the most fun, besides watching the horses and the hounds, is watching the people. Hats took a back seat to cute boots this year, and those who got the memo to invest in rubber galoshes came away the day's real winners.
As always there were great and not-so-great sundresses to critique. I've come to the conclusion that it's time for Carole Jackson''s Color Me Beautiful book to make a comeback. I saw too many beautiful "winters' in dresses made for "springs." Or "autumns" on "summers."
I still have my color swatches from 25 years ago. Maybe I'll do some consulting before next May rolls around and make a little cash on the side. I must talk to my friend Cathi Aycock, the Shopping Diva about this. I'll let you know what she says.
And a final fashion tip for next year: If you even remotely consider wearing a brown gauze sundress with only a thong underneath, please don't.
***
School board ready to act
The Williamson County School Board is expected to name a new superintendent of schools tonight. Two finalists remain in contention: Dr. Terri Breeden of Fairfax (Va.) County Public Schools and Dr. Phillip "Bret" Jimerson of Grand Prairie (Texas) Independent Schools.
I happened to meet Breeden Saturday night at a social gathering and after a long conversation came away very impressed. While she's currently serving in Fairfax, Va., she has Middle Tennessee roots, having earned her doctorate at Vanderbilt and serving most of her career with Metro Nashville schools. She even has a Nashville dog, a mutt adopted from the Nashville animal shelter.
I regret not being able to hear both of the candidates last week when a public reception was held at Franklin High School. If Breeden is tapped, I feel we'll be in good hands. If the job goes to Jimerson, I'm sure I'll feel the same way. Our school system is too good for the board to let any candidate make it this far that they don't feel is up to the job ... and ready for the many, many heavy expectations that will immediately be placed upon their shoulders.
***
Heard today that at least one major administrative change is expected in Brentwood public schools next fall. Will share details as soon as they become available. Stay tuned.
The mayor, music and more
Still awaiting emails and call backs from several sources this morning, but in the meantime, here are a few Brentwood news nuggets and musings to share:
Concert kickoff canned
Concert kickoff canned
Lots of disappointed folks showed up, picnic baskets in hand, to hear the Nashville Symphony last night at Crockett Park. Unfortunately, the symphony cancelled. Linda Lynch, the city’s community relations director, said the concert cannot be rescheduled because the symphony's calendar is so packed.
My guess is the cool temps paired with threat of rain helped pull the plug on this always popular kickoff to the summer concert series, sponsored by BancorpSouth, CapStar Bank and Williamson Medical Center. I'm waiting to hear back from the symphony. Will let you know if I learn more.
The good news? By the time the next concert comes around -- Riders in the Sky on June 7 -- it will definitely be warmer. Sadly, will make no bets on the possibility of rain, though.
Big night at the Municipal Building
My guess is the cool temps paired with threat of rain helped pull the plug on this always popular kickoff to the summer concert series, sponsored by BancorpSouth, CapStar Bank and Williamson Medical Center. I'm waiting to hear back from the symphony. Will let you know if I learn more.
The good news? By the time the next concert comes around -- Riders in the Sky on June 7 -- it will definitely be warmer. Sadly, will make no bets on the possibility of rain, though.
Big night at the Municipal Building
So, who will be our new mayor? We’ll find out tonight.
Unfortunately, the “election” comes before the “Comments from Citizens” portion of the agenda, so anyone with an opinion or suggestion best email the commision members today. Email addresses and phone numbers are available at the city’s much-improved website, www.brentwood-tn.org.
In Brentwood, being mayor is to a large degree a ceremonial role though it does come with added responsibilities, a $100 bump in salary a month, and the neat power of being able to marry people under Tennessee law. Who knew?
City Manager Mike Walker shared the mayor’s responsibilities with me this morning (at 6:25 a.m. no less). Brentwood’s mayor chairs the city commission meetings, signs contracts and other official documents on behalf of the city, makes appointments to certain boards and commissions specified in the charter or code of ordinances, and represents the city at ceremonial events.
The vice mayor serves as mayor in his or her absence.
As Brentwood grows beyond its bubble, and nearby cities, the county and the state work together to solve issues that affect us all – traffic and the environment come to mind – the position becomes more important and visible than ever.
After watching the commission over the past four years, and attending the four candidate forums held during this most recent election cycle, my vote – if I had one – would go to Paul Webb. Paul has ably served the city as vice mayor for the past two years, has a firm grasp on the issues facing the city, presents himself in a professional, thoughtful manner, speaks with authority, and represented the city well in last year’s forum with other Williamson County mayors and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean.
New commissioner Rhea Little will also take his seat tonight after being sworn in and I’m excited to see what he brings to the table.
Hope to see you all there. 7 p.m. Municipal Building, 5211 Maryland Way.
Update on Joe Lassus
Mike Walker continues to share updates on our Planning Director Joe Lassus, who recently underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor. Here’s Mike’s report from Friday:
“…The healing is fine. His next doctor visit will be on Wednesday when he will meet with the oncologist – Dr. Moots to go over the results of the biopsy. Afterwards, they should know about the follow up treatment, rehab work, etc.”
Mike shares that Joe can eat, read the newspaper, shower and write things but is still having trouble with speaking. All positive signs.
Keep those positive prayers coming, especially on Wednesday when he goes back to the doctor.
Still to come:
Musings from the mud bowl (Iroquois Steeplechase)
Superintendent search
Music & Memories at the Martin Center
Please check back later for details!
Unfortunately, the “election” comes before the “Comments from Citizens” portion of the agenda, so anyone with an opinion or suggestion best email the commision members today. Email addresses and phone numbers are available at the city’s much-improved website, www.brentwood-tn.org.
In Brentwood, being mayor is to a large degree a ceremonial role though it does come with added responsibilities, a $100 bump in salary a month, and the neat power of being able to marry people under Tennessee law. Who knew?
City Manager Mike Walker shared the mayor’s responsibilities with me this morning (at 6:25 a.m. no less). Brentwood’s mayor chairs the city commission meetings, signs contracts and other official documents on behalf of the city, makes appointments to certain boards and commissions specified in the charter or code of ordinances, and represents the city at ceremonial events.
The vice mayor serves as mayor in his or her absence.
As Brentwood grows beyond its bubble, and nearby cities, the county and the state work together to solve issues that affect us all – traffic and the environment come to mind – the position becomes more important and visible than ever.
After watching the commission over the past four years, and attending the four candidate forums held during this most recent election cycle, my vote – if I had one – would go to Paul Webb. Paul has ably served the city as vice mayor for the past two years, has a firm grasp on the issues facing the city, presents himself in a professional, thoughtful manner, speaks with authority, and represented the city well in last year’s forum with other Williamson County mayors and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean.
New commissioner Rhea Little will also take his seat tonight after being sworn in and I’m excited to see what he brings to the table.
Hope to see you all there. 7 p.m. Municipal Building, 5211 Maryland Way.
Update on Joe Lassus
Mike Walker continues to share updates on our Planning Director Joe Lassus, who recently underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor. Here’s Mike’s report from Friday:
“…The healing is fine. His next doctor visit will be on Wednesday when he will meet with the oncologist – Dr. Moots to go over the results of the biopsy. Afterwards, they should know about the follow up treatment, rehab work, etc.”
Mike shares that Joe can eat, read the newspaper, shower and write things but is still having trouble with speaking. All positive signs.
Keep those positive prayers coming, especially on Wednesday when he goes back to the doctor.
Still to come:
Musings from the mud bowl (Iroquois Steeplechase)
Superintendent search
Music & Memories at the Martin Center
Please check back later for details!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Coming up: A preview...
Coming to BrentWord on Monday:
- Too cold for the Symphony? An update on Sunday night's cancelled concert and details on when, if it will be rescheduled.
- Recovery update on Planning Director Joe Lassus.
- The City Commission meets tonight to elect a new mayor, make appointments to city committees and a lot more. Who wants to be our mayor? Who's the best candidate?
- Met one of the two finalists for the Williamson County School Superintendent ... and I really liked her.
- Thoughts on Saturday's mud wrestling tournament ... or, sorry, I mean Iroquois Steeplechase. Great fun but is anyone checking IDs?
- Stay tune throughout the day for updates on these topics and more.
Happy Mother's Day!
Just a quick note to extend my best wishes to all the mothers, grandmothers, mother-in-laws, stepmoms, surrogate moms and others who have served as mothers in any number of descriptions. And of course, a special shout out to my own mother, Hilda Robbins Taylor, of Richmond, Va. and the world's best mother-in-law, Margie McKinney Leathers, who recently relocated to Nashville.
Headed off to a brunch prepared by the men of the family and will report back later. Sure it will be delicious!
Happy Mother's Day!
Love,
Susan
Headed off to a brunch prepared by the men of the family and will report back later. Sure it will be delicious!
Happy Mother's Day!
Love,
Susan
Friday, May 8, 2009
Positive thoughts for unsoggy Saturday
It's time for an anti-rain dance. There's too much planned around town and beyond this weekend to let the rain gods interfere for yet another weekend.
First up is the Iroquois Steeplechase, which thousands of Brentwood residents flock to every Second Saturday in May. There should be an unwritten law that it can only be sunny and breezy on Steeplechase day. We always tailgate in the Topside section, a bit removed from the party central area that is the Infield and Midfield but not quite as high brow as the box seats.
I'm taking $1 bets on the weather tomorrow, and trust blue skies will send me home with a handful of green bills.
***
If your pantry is stocked full, please consider bagging up some staples for the "Second Harvest Needs Your Help to Stamp Out Hunger" event on Saturday. Just put a bag of nonperishables by your mailbox Saturday for your letter carrier to pick up. The Second Harvest website says the most needed items includ canned tuna or chicken, peanut butter, canned soup, fruit, vegetables, rice and macaroni & cheese. Second Havest estimates that 13 million children face hunger every day.
***
We really need to pray for sun for the Brentwood Soccer Club. Its annual tournament is this weekend and can mean thousands, like $20,000 for the city. Unfortunately it's been rained out the past few years and chair Kelly Lee doesn't deserve another. Tournaments like these are one way tourism dollars flow into the city's coffers.
***
Everyone's invited to Breakout ’09, a Christian festival for youth, children and families, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday on the rear lawn at New Hope Community Church, 605 Wilson Pike. This free daytime event features inflatables, games, face painting,music and fun for children and the family. There will be three-on-three pickup basketball games on the parking lot with prizes. Picnic food will be available for purchase at minimal prices.
And Saturday night, a teen concert begins at 6 p.m. in church’s Fellowship Hall. Headlining are four of Christian music’s up-and-coming performers, predominantly for teens. Headlining will be Remedy Drive (nominated for Gospel Music Association Dove Awards) and rap artist Grits (who have worked with both dcTalk and Tobymac). The concert is $10 per ticket, which should be purchased in advance.
Parking for both events will be in the church’s parking lot with overflow on the lawn. For ticket info, contact Youth Pastor Josh Huisman at 373-1590.
***
Sunday's Mother's Day. Need I say more? Except that if you haven't made lunch or dinner reservations at one of our growing number of great restaurants, good luck. I'd start working those phones now. And if you haven't gotten dear old Mom a gift yet, may I suggest a gift certificate for a whole house deep clean. At least, that's what one mom I know might want.
***
Finally, don't forget the Nashville Symphony concert Sunday at Crockett Park's Eddy Arnold Amphitheater. See my previous post for comments from Resident Director Albert-George Schram. The music starts at 7 p.m. but feel free to come early and bring a picnic, weather permitting.
Ah, the weather. I see some sun poking through now, but we're also under a tornado watch. Go figure and hope for the best, plan for the worst.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Random thoughts because I can...
If news occurred in Brentwood on Thursday, I'm blissfully unaware.
Started my day oversleeping and almost missing a date with former City Commission candidate Devin McClendon at The Perch where he taught me to Twitter. I called at 7:40 a.m. to tell him I'd hit the alarm for "five more minutes" that had turned into 90. He asked me: "Well, are you the kind of person who can throw on sweat pants and a hat and come out in public?"
What does he take me for? A Real Housewife of Brentwood who can't go out unless she's dressed to the nines and fully made up? Listen folks: There's a reason there isn't a photo on this blog yet.
Anyway, that's how and where my day started. So you can soon start following me on twitter at BrentWord.
Started my day oversleeping and almost missing a date with former City Commission candidate Devin McClendon at The Perch where he taught me to Twitter. I called at 7:40 a.m. to tell him I'd hit the alarm for "five more minutes" that had turned into 90. He asked me: "Well, are you the kind of person who can throw on sweat pants and a hat and come out in public?"
What does he take me for? A Real Housewife of Brentwood who can't go out unless she's dressed to the nines and fully made up? Listen folks: There's a reason there isn't a photo on this blog yet.
Anyway, that's how and where my day started. So you can soon start following me on twitter at BrentWord.
***
Next it was off to Cool Springs for the second of four "incubator" sessions through Ladies Who Launch, an amazing networking group for women entrepreneurs. I learned about LWL through Celeste Raines after joining the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber of Commerce.
The incubator sounded like a great opportunity to help hone the business plan I'm working on with my friend and new business partner Kelly Gilfillan (www.outsidetheBrentwoodBubble.com).
The two-hour session was an incredible opportunity, learning more about a handful of women who are doing, and want to continue doing, amazing things. As an example, if you don't have plans at 6 p.m. Sunday, May 17th, mark your calendars for "Heart for the Arts." That's all I can share right now, but keep the date open. You'll be glad you did. I'll share details as soon as I know them.
***
Next stop was an attorney's office to talk about how to structure our business. Small world attorneys' offices, even outside the Brentwood Bubble in Belle Meade. Turns out the practice has a young, almost attorney Matt Johnson working with them who is a Lipscomb Elementary, Brentwood Middle and Brentwood High grad. Matt, who sits for the bar this summer, has also worked in the Brentwood Planning Department. Who knew? That young man obviously has a future, after his tutelage with the city.
***
And then, treading on Kelly's blog territory a bit, I attended the fifth anniversary celebration for The Next Door (thenextdoor.org), an incredible nonprofit that has made me believe in miracles.
My sister-in-law, Linda Leathers, was one of several "Wild Praying Women" at First Baptist Nashville who a little over five years ago independently saw a building the church owned in downtown Nashville and said to herself, "God wants us to do something there." One woman mentioned her thoughts to another who said, "I've been thinking the same thing" who mentioned her thoughts to another and so it went.
From there, The Next Door was born.
In a nutshell, The Next Door helps restore women coming out of incarceration into whole, contributing members of society, often for the first time in their lives. The recidivism rate for Next Door graduates returning to prison is 15 percent. Nationally, that number is closer to 75 percent. The program was honored by the White House several times during the Bush Administration and held up as a national example of successful faith-based initiatives.
Andrea Conte, our state's First Lady, gave the welcoming remarks. Another Andrea, Andrea Overby of Brentwood, one of The Next Door's fiercest supporters and founding board members, introduced Conte.
The celebration at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena was amazing. And left me in awe.
***
Finally got home at 8 p.m., just in time for Grey's Anatomy. Tissues, everyone?
What a day for a laid-off worker who calls Brentwood home.
I wouldn't have it any other way.
Peace.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Symphony set for Crockett Park
The Nashville Symphony opens the 2009 Brentwood Concert Series at 7 p.m. Sunday in the Eddy Arnold Amphitheater at Crockett Park. Unfortunately the symphony's new Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero, who has settled in Brentwood with his family, is out of town and won't be able to make it. But have no fear, Resident Conductor Albert-George Schram is at the ready and up for the job. I understand he's really fun to watch. Best of all, he's looking forward to it too.
Here's what Schram had to say in a BrentWord exclusive....
The concert is one Brentwood residents look forward to each year. Is this anticipation reciprocated by the symphony?
Most definitely. We love performing at Schermerhorn Symphony Center, but there’s something exciting about performing for people in their own communities – the audience really feels at home, and it’s such a relaxed atmosphere. We have a lot of fans and supporters in Brentwood who come to our concerts, but it’s also gratifying to know that anytime we perform our concerts in the parks, we’re also going to reach an audience who might not have gotten to hear the symphony perform before – especially children, who don’t have as many opportunities to go to concerts.
What do you love about the venue -- the Eddy Arnold Amphitheater?
It’s such a wonderful, family-friendly environment. Compared to downtown Nashville, it has the feel of a small-town gathering, and this time of year it’s always so nice to be outdoors, surrounded by the smells and sounds of the springtime. The weather is just warm enough – but not sweltering.
What are the challenges of playing outdoors?
There are quite a few, actually. Musical instruments can be very fickle and subject to changes in temperature and humidity, so our players have to work extra-hard to make sure their instruments stay in tune. The acoustics are also quite challenging. Even if you have a band shell with some kind of roof overhead, the sound doesn’t travel the same way it does in a concert hall. So my job is to make sure that even if the musicians aren’t hearing everything they’re used to hearing, I can help make sure that they’re all working together. And once we’ve managed to tackle that challenge, then we’re really able to enjoy the rewards of playing outdoors – seeing all those happy faces, enjoying the springtime breezes and the sunshine.
Hope to see you at the park, and don't forget to bring Mom -- it is her day remember!
Experts weigh in on election date, open precincts
Lots of talk and questions yesterday about why Brentwood couldn't have "open" precincts similar to those used during early voting, and why the city doesn't attach itself to national and/or state elections to increase turnout.
Where there are questions, there must be answers so I went to the experts to get them. First up, Ann Beard, Williamson County Election Administrator:
Hi Ms. Beard,
Covering the Brentwood elections today for my Brentwood blog, there was much discussion on ways to increase turnout. One thought was that in future municipal elections, would it be possible for residents to vote at any precinct, similar to early voting, rather than specific ones on Election Day. With today's technology would that be possible?
I promised readers I'd ask and report back. Thanks for all of your help.
Sincerely,
Susan Leathers
It has been discussed of the possibility of establishing vote centers for elections. Similarly to early voting, where your early voting period would be for so many days and the last day of early voting would be Election Day. This would have to be put into law by our legislature.
My thoughts are if all municipal elections were conducted along with General elections as we now do with Fairview, Nolensville and Thompson's Station, you would get more people voting. However, our two largest municipalities do not want their elections conducted in conjunction with other elections and at present laws allows them, by charter, to have their elections in odd numbered years. Hope this answers your question and also gives you some information.
Ann
Next up, Roger Horner, our city attorney:
Help!
With low turnout today, there's been some lively discussion on why Brentwood holds its municipal elections independently of bigger elections (state, national) which you would assume would drive voter numbers up. I don't know the answer but one person mentioned they thought it was set up that way in the city charter. True? And if so, how does the charter get changed should there be a movement to try to do that?
Susan –
The City Charter allows the election date to be set on any date that is within 90 days of the anniversary of the first election, OR on the same date as the November elections. In 1987, the Board of Commissioners did take action to move the City’s election date to November, in an effort to get more people to participate in electing commissioners. Then, in 1992, it was changed again, this time to the first Tuesday in May.
The benefit of having a separate election, as opposed to combining it with state and national elections, is that the voters who turn out are focused on municipal issues. While moving the City’s election to November would bring out more voters, it’s likely that you’d get a lot of voters that haven’t taken time to acquaint themselves with the local issues or the candidates. Better to have a smaller number of informed voters than to have a large number of people who may just be pushing buttons without thinking it through.
Roger
City Attorney
And from City Manager Mike Walker:
My comments are similar to Roger's. Traditionally, local elections are held separately because in the bigger elections, the debate on local issues and even the signs for local candidates sometimes get lost in the overall debate on state or national elections, political parties, national issues, etc. The local election becomes relegated to the same status on the ballot as, for example, voting for a state Supreme Court judge or court of appeals judge. There is no question that people who choose to vote at the separate election are informed on the local issues voters; otherwise, they would not make the effort to vote.
What are your thoughts on it all? Please comment below.
Where there are questions, there must be answers so I went to the experts to get them. First up, Ann Beard, Williamson County Election Administrator:
Hi Ms. Beard,
Covering the Brentwood elections today for my Brentwood blog, there was much discussion on ways to increase turnout. One thought was that in future municipal elections, would it be possible for residents to vote at any precinct, similar to early voting, rather than specific ones on Election Day. With today's technology would that be possible?
I promised readers I'd ask and report back. Thanks for all of your help.
Sincerely,
Susan Leathers
It has been discussed of the possibility of establishing vote centers for elections. Similarly to early voting, where your early voting period would be for so many days and the last day of early voting would be Election Day. This would have to be put into law by our legislature.
My thoughts are if all municipal elections were conducted along with General elections as we now do with Fairview, Nolensville and Thompson's Station, you would get more people voting. However, our two largest municipalities do not want their elections conducted in conjunction with other elections and at present laws allows them, by charter, to have their elections in odd numbered years. Hope this answers your question and also gives you some information.
Ann
Next up, Roger Horner, our city attorney:
Help!
With low turnout today, there's been some lively discussion on why Brentwood holds its municipal elections independently of bigger elections (state, national) which you would assume would drive voter numbers up. I don't know the answer but one person mentioned they thought it was set up that way in the city charter. True? And if so, how does the charter get changed should there be a movement to try to do that?
Susan –
The City Charter allows the election date to be set on any date that is within 90 days of the anniversary of the first election, OR on the same date as the November elections. In 1987, the Board of Commissioners did take action to move the City’s election date to November, in an effort to get more people to participate in electing commissioners. Then, in 1992, it was changed again, this time to the first Tuesday in May.
The benefit of having a separate election, as opposed to combining it with state and national elections, is that the voters who turn out are focused on municipal issues. While moving the City’s election to November would bring out more voters, it’s likely that you’d get a lot of voters that haven’t taken time to acquaint themselves with the local issues or the candidates. Better to have a smaller number of informed voters than to have a large number of people who may just be pushing buttons without thinking it through.
Roger
City Attorney
And from City Manager Mike Walker:
My comments are similar to Roger's. Traditionally, local elections are held separately because in the bigger elections, the debate on local issues and even the signs for local candidates sometimes get lost in the overall debate on state or national elections, political parties, national issues, etc. The local election becomes relegated to the same status on the ballot as, for example, voting for a state Supreme Court judge or court of appeals judge. There is no question that people who choose to vote at the separate election are informed on the local issues voters; otherwise, they would not make the effort to vote.
What are your thoughts on it all? Please comment below.
Twitter me up Devin
A few final thoughts on Tuesday's election:
Personally, I'm so glad Devin McClendon lost the election. Now he'll have time to teach me to Twitter. But unfortunately for me, I have an idea he won't be twiddling his thumbs, or teaching me to Tweet anytime soon. I hope there's a 2011 Brentwood race in his future, or maybe even something bigger. After yesterday, I wonder if he's not too progressive for us. And that's a shame.
Have you ever seen the 1998 movie Pleasantville starring Nashville's own Reece Witherspoon? Since we're supposed to have another 19 inches of rain in the next few days, rent it, Netflix it or check it out from the Brentwood Library (just make sure you return it on time! This I know from experience -- see yesterday's post). Settle in on the couch, pop popcorn and enjoy. Then let me know what you think.
Speaking of rain, the Leathers’ rain gauge currently shows just shy of an inch of rain from overnight and this morning. Sigh.
And speaking of the library, you have to love Library Director Chuck Sherrill. He said he would have loaned me cash or his library card yesterday. As to why he would be late to the gathering at the library to hear who vote tallies, you must love his excuse: “I’m going out to dinner with my parents, celebrating their 64th wedding anniversary (!). I will be back at the library after that.” Congratulations to them!
Could 2011 bring a Joe and Joe showdown?
Last year, longtime commissioner Joe Sweeney announced at a city commission meeting he did not plan to run for re-election. In a Brentwood Journal story following up on the statement he confirmed that was his thinking at that time, leaving the door cracked for another run. If he decides to open the door in two years he will face Brentwood's other Joe --longtime commissioner Joe Reagan who came in fourth Tuesday. Both have celebrated 80th birthdays but both still love the city with the passion they had when they first ran for office.
Will be interesting to see what happens.
Personally, I'm so glad Devin McClendon lost the election. Now he'll have time to teach me to Twitter. But unfortunately for me, I have an idea he won't be twiddling his thumbs, or teaching me to Tweet anytime soon. I hope there's a 2011 Brentwood race in his future, or maybe even something bigger. After yesterday, I wonder if he's not too progressive for us. And that's a shame.
Have you ever seen the 1998 movie Pleasantville starring Nashville's own Reece Witherspoon? Since we're supposed to have another 19 inches of rain in the next few days, rent it, Netflix it or check it out from the Brentwood Library (just make sure you return it on time! This I know from experience -- see yesterday's post). Settle in on the couch, pop popcorn and enjoy. Then let me know what you think.
Speaking of rain, the Leathers’ rain gauge currently shows just shy of an inch of rain from overnight and this morning. Sigh.
And speaking of the library, you have to love Library Director Chuck Sherrill. He said he would have loaned me cash or his library card yesterday. As to why he would be late to the gathering at the library to hear who vote tallies, you must love his excuse: “I’m going out to dinner with my parents, celebrating their 64th wedding anniversary (!). I will be back at the library after that.” Congratulations to them!
Could 2011 bring a Joe and Joe showdown?
Last year, longtime commissioner Joe Sweeney announced at a city commission meeting he did not plan to run for re-election. In a Brentwood Journal story following up on the statement he confirmed that was his thinking at that time, leaving the door cracked for another run. If he decides to open the door in two years he will face Brentwood's other Joe --longtime commissioner Joe Reagan who came in fourth Tuesday. Both have celebrated 80th birthdays but both still love the city with the passion they had when they first ran for office.
Will be interesting to see what happens.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Little tops vote count; incumbents win
On Monday night, the Brentwood City Commission will have one new member.
Rhea Little, with 2,700 votes, received the most votes in Tuesday's Brentwood City Commission race. Incumbents Regina Smithson and Paul Webb tied with 1,979 votes. Current Mayor Joe Reagan received 1,929 votes and will have to run again in two years.
The fourth-place finisher fills out the remaining two years of the late Bill Youree's term. Youree, elected in 2007, died less than a year into his term. Former City Commissioner Alex Noble was appointed to serve until this election. Noble decided not to run citing family responsibilities.
Rod Freeman came in fifth, with 1,906 votes; followed by Devin McClendon with 1,606, Natalie Mertie with 331, Patsy George, 235, Lydia Hampton, 189, and Miguel Palmer, 188. There were 24 write in votes.
In all, only 3,829 of 26,014 registered voters cast ballots in the municipal election. Of those, 1,594 voted Tuesday, 2,208 voted during the early voting and 27 voted with absentee ballots.
Little's family has a long history in Brentwood and he is anxious to serve the town he has worked and volunteered in his entire life, he said. His term will officially start on Monday when he's sworn into office but unofficially City Manager Mike Walker told him tonight that he'll have a budget packet on Wednesday. The commission will start fine tuning next year's budget at their Thursday work session.
"I'm just looking forward to serving Brentwood as a commissioner," Little said after the announcement. "I'm real humbled by all the support I've gotten throughout the campaign season."
Devin McClendon, the youngest candidate, raised the bar for future Brentwood elections by utilizing social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, text messaging and web blasts. He said his "only disappointment was in the turnout."
Rhea Little, with 2,700 votes, received the most votes in Tuesday's Brentwood City Commission race. Incumbents Regina Smithson and Paul Webb tied with 1,979 votes. Current Mayor Joe Reagan received 1,929 votes and will have to run again in two years.
The fourth-place finisher fills out the remaining two years of the late Bill Youree's term. Youree, elected in 2007, died less than a year into his term. Former City Commissioner Alex Noble was appointed to serve until this election. Noble decided not to run citing family responsibilities.
Rod Freeman came in fifth, with 1,906 votes; followed by Devin McClendon with 1,606, Natalie Mertie with 331, Patsy George, 235, Lydia Hampton, 189, and Miguel Palmer, 188. There were 24 write in votes.
In all, only 3,829 of 26,014 registered voters cast ballots in the municipal election. Of those, 1,594 voted Tuesday, 2,208 voted during the early voting and 27 voted with absentee ballots.
Little's family has a long history in Brentwood and he is anxious to serve the town he has worked and volunteered in his entire life, he said. His term will officially start on Monday when he's sworn into office but unofficially City Manager Mike Walker told him tonight that he'll have a budget packet on Wednesday. The commission will start fine tuning next year's budget at their Thursday work session.
"I'm just looking forward to serving Brentwood as a commissioner," Little said after the announcement. "I'm real humbled by all the support I've gotten throughout the campaign season."
Devin McClendon, the youngest candidate, raised the bar for future Brentwood elections by utilizing social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, text messaging and web blasts. He said his "only disappointment was in the turnout."
Still time to vote
Check out this spot later tonight for a recap on the election and hopefully comments from some of the winners and losers.If you haven't voted, you still have a few hours to cast your vote at your designated precinct. Remember that every vote matters.
To those who have already cast ballots, a sincere thank you.
To those who have already cast ballots, a sincere thank you.
Old home week at Otter Creek
You learn amazing things when you listen. Here are just a few of the things I picked up today visiting the precincts:
- When the new children's area of the Brentwood Library opens in early fall, the kids won't walk in through a door. They'll get to their special place through a spectacular entry made just for them.
- There's a new "giving circle" in Nashville, a group comprised of 35 women of means working together to give their money where it can do the most good.
- Pete Schutt, one of my all-time favorite people, is moving out of Brentwood. He's giving up his swanky digs at The Heritage for a two-bedroom condo in a 50-plus community in Franklin. When he leaves, we lose one of our most engaged city residents. Brentwood really must find a way for seniors to independently downsize that doesn't involve buying a $750,000-plus townhome or having to choose an assisted living or continuing care facility.
- Speaking of The Heritage, I hear residents there can't understand why they can't vote at the Brentwood Library, located hardly half a mile from their senior residential community. Instead, they must travel to New Hope Church on Wilson Pike. Good question.
- Boyd Fulton, who does more to promote organ donation than anyone I've ever met, told me he knew "one old man who got out of the hospital on Monday and is voting today." Good thing. With turnout as low as it has been, that vote might be a tie breaker. (Research the 2007 city commission election for context).
Pay no fine before its time .. and other Election Day news
It's a sad state of affairs. At 9:48 a.m. this morning, only 37 people had voted at the Brentwood Library. And that's not the worst news.
The excellent crew working the polls told me they had sent almost as many people away, because they were at the wrong polling station. But that's not the worst news, either.
What could that be? It's like this: My game plan had been to blog from one of the library's incredible array of computers after hanging out for a few hours talking to voters, candidates, etc. I went in, threw off my coat and settled in. I pulled out my handy key chain library card, put in my account number and, voila, was ready to go to work. But no. Turns out I owe a fine and access was denied.
Having no cash, I headed home to blog instead.
All's well that ends well, however. I left my chair at the library and will pay the fine when I return to pick it up. I just hope that when I ask the election crew later today how many have voted the numbers will have turned miraculously upward.
"You would think in this electronic age you could vote anywhere in the city, especially in an election where they are expecting less than 20,000 votes," he said before heading to the Brentwood Safety Center on Sunset Road.
He's right about being able to vote anywhere in the city for a municipal election. We should be able to. Unfortunately I don't think he's right about the 20,000 voters. From the looks of it, we'll be lucky to hit 2,000 today.
He's already thinking and scheming and otherwise trying to figure out how to make it happen. If you have ideas to share, he's open to hearing them!
The excellent crew working the polls told me they had sent almost as many people away, because they were at the wrong polling station. But that's not the worst news, either.
What could that be? It's like this: My game plan had been to blog from one of the library's incredible array of computers after hanging out for a few hours talking to voters, candidates, etc. I went in, threw off my coat and settled in. I pulled out my handy key chain library card, put in my account number and, voila, was ready to go to work. But no. Turns out I owe a fine and access was denied.
Having no cash, I headed home to blog instead.
All's well that ends well, however. I left my chair at the library and will pay the fine when I return to pick it up. I just hope that when I ask the election crew later today how many have voted the numbers will have turned miraculously upward.
***
Dietrich "Deech" Kirk and his daughter Carlisle stopped by the library to vote. They (well make that Deech, Carlisle is 3) were among those directed to another polling place."You would think in this electronic age you could vote anywhere in the city, especially in an election where they are expecting less than 20,000 votes," he said before heading to the Brentwood Safety Center on Sunset Road.
He's right about being able to vote anywhere in the city for a municipal election. We should be able to. Unfortunately I don't think he's right about the 20,000 voters. From the looks of it, we'll be lucky to hit 2,000 today.
***
Speaking of turnout, Mac Kelton, out campaigning for Devin McClendon early this morning at the library, thinks Brentwood can make history in the 2011 city commission election. He truly believes there's a way to reach 100 percent voter turnout. Talk about breaking national news right here in small-town Tennessee.He's already thinking and scheming and otherwise trying to figure out how to make it happen. If you have ideas to share, he's open to hearing them!
***
Joe Reagan isn't out trying to buy votes this morning, but he definitely is keeping his poll workers happy with a steady supply of Daylight Donuts. Joe is one sweet politician though I did call him evil for trying to compromise my South Beach effort. Thank goodness they weren't chocolate glazed ....***
Well, it's time to get back out among 'em. Check back for more news from the streets, or parking lots as the case may be.
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