La Vergne, Tennessee

Roll Up the Sidewalks and Say Good Bye

2007-04-16T22:00:00.000-05:00

It's official. We are shutting this blog down. Oh, don't worry. We aren't abandoning you! We're moving to a new, spiffy site!

But first, let's take care of some business. "I'm Just Sayin'" won this week's photo scavenger hunt! You'll need to email me separately to let me know which movie you want (I'll send you a list) and how to get it. Thanks, Michael for your comments about the Farmer's Market idea (but I think we're trying to steal it from Smyrna!) (Shhhh...). :) I invite all of you who've commented today to consider "saying it again" at the new site because we transferred our posts before your comments were made. Comment! Isn't that a funny word when you write it a gazillion times?

Meanwhile, please come visit us at our new home. We hope you bookmark the page and visit frequently.

It's here: http://thisislavergne.wordpress.com.

Our email for this site and the new one is: lavergneblog@gmail.com

Photo Scavenger Hunt

2007-04-16T16:15:00.000-05:00

Time again for another photo scavenger hunt - and this one should be oh-so-easy! So much so that I'm not even going to give a single little clue! First one to guess (contributing authors not eligible) wins a really bad movie on a really bad dvd!

And congratulations to CHB who won the last search. Since he/she never came forward to claim the prize, we'll just have to keep it in the prize cache! The location, by the way, was the creek that's mostly dry when you go across the little bridge on Fergus Road (heading toward Lake Forest, it's on the right).

Prayers Needed

2007-04-16T11:46:00.000-05:00

Please keep the students, faculty, friends, and families of Virginia Tech students in your prayers. A gunman has killed at least 22 people on campus, and 21 wounded (as reported live on CNN Headline News).

Here are some links to follow this tragic story.

Load of News from the City

2007-04-16T11:31:00.000-05:00

Water shut off rules change in La Vergne

To sign up for La Vergne City Water/Sewer service, residents and business owners must come to La Vergne City Hall, 5093 Murfreesboro Road. The Water/Sewer Service office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. They are closed Saturday and Sunday.

An application consisting of the following must be filled out: Resident’s and spouse’s (if applicable) name, address, social security number, driver’s license number, place of employment.

A service fee of $50 for residential and $75 for commercial/business accounts is required when the resident/business owner applies for the service.

Residents purchasing a new home must also bring a copy of the “Certificate of Occupancy,” given to them by their builder. They also need a Settlement Statement for a new home or an existing home. Renters must bring a copy of their lease agreement.

There is a $25 returned check charge.

We no longer send out final notices prior to the water being shut off. There is a $25 charge for water being turned off for non-payment. It can be turned on after hours (4:30 p.m.) by calling 793-5932.

However, it costs an $25 additional fee to have this done. If they have it turned on after hours, they MUST come to the Water Department in City Hall by 9 a.m. the next day or service will be turned back off. The second time the service is turned off, it will not be restored until payment is made.

*********************
The Old Timers' Day T-shirt design contest has been opened up to all residents of Rutherford County. We had originally only opened it up to La Vergne residents, but haven't gotten much response as of yet, so any resident of Rutherford County is welcome to apply.

The Old Timers' Day Committee is looking for Rutherford County residents who have a knowledge of graphic arts to design the 2007 Old Timers' Day T-shirt. The winner will receive a $150, a plaque, five T-shirts in their choice of sizes and a bundle of City of La Vergne/Old Timers' Day ad specialty items. The second and third place winners will receive a plaque. The contest is sponsored by Tee Gees Restaurant, located on Murfreesboro Road in La Vergne.

The T-shirts will be gray this year and the official Old Timers' Day logo must be used within the design. The theme for this year's event is "Looking Toward the Future." The design will be placed across the front of the T-shirts, which are given to the sponsors and sold at the festival. The artwork must not be larger than 10.5" x 10.5" and Red, White and Blue must be the colors used in this year's design. No obscene material will be accepted.

The creator of the design gives up all rights when submitting the artwork. The winning artist, as well as the second and third place entrants will be recognized at the festival.

In 2006, all of the T-shirts were either given to sponsors (in exchange for their sponsorship) or sold to members of the public. This year, approximately 300 T-shirts will be made, using the winning design. The T-Shirts will be sold at the festival for $5 for S-XL and $6.50 for 2X and $7.50 for 3X.

The logo can be e-mailed to the designer. Write Angie Mayes at amayes@lavergne.org or call her at 287-8690 for a copy of the logo or for more information.

We will only accept computer-generated art, preferably as an Adobe Illustrator or Freehand (done a computer). Designers must supply a hard copy of the artwork as well with the artist's name on the backside only.

A CD of the design, along with a hard copy, should be mailed to Angie Mayes, Old Timers’ Day coordinator, 5093 Murfreesboro Road, La Vergne, TN 37086 or drop it off at 294 Sand Hill Road (behind Veteran’s Memorial Park) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Deadline for the design is 4 p.m. on June

*****
The City of La Vergne's Old Timers' Day committee is looking for 3-5 members of the community or city employees who are willing to judge entries for the Old Timers' Day T-shirt design contest.

The tentative design meeting will take place Saturday, June 2 at 10 a.m. at the Parks and Rec Department, 294 Sand Hill Road. For more information, see this blog (under April announcements) or call Chairman Angie Mayes at 287-8690 or 207-4678 (M-F, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

*****
The City of La Vergne is looking for volunteers for boards and committees. The openings are as follows:

One person is needed for the Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA).
Two people are needed for the Employee Review Board.
Two people are needed for the Greenway Advisory Committee.
Two people are needed for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.
Three people are needed for the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee.

To apply, please stop by City Recorder Bruce Richardson's office in La Vergne City Hall, 5093 Murfreesboro Road, La Vergne. His number is 793-6295. His office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

JL Kirk v. Coble Roundup

2007-04-16T11:24:00.000-05:00

I just found this article via Newscoma that was published in the Nashville City Paper. It’ s a very interesting read about how the big law firm retained by JL Kirk Associates and the company itself is trying to stifle Katherine Coble’s written experiences she and her husband had with the headhunting company. Bill Hobbs has an outstanding roundup here.

I think one of the most interesting things is that Coble’s attorney said a blog is not responsible for the comments made by others to the blog. That said, I personally feel an obligation to not allow comments (as we all know!) that reads as a personal attack on someone. Now if that someone was to comment in person and start the whole thing, that’s a whole ‘nother can of worms. Anyway, go read what’s going on in the world of blogs.

Brandon Home

2007-04-16T10:16:00.000-05:00

Brandon is back home in La Vergne for now. He remains very ill, however, and is back on the transplant list. Read the Daily News Journal here, and please keep Brandon and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

School Daze...

2007-04-15T22:19:00.000-05:00

This week begins the dreaded TCAP tests, but below is a listing of some of the more enjoyable activities coming up in our schools!

At Cedar Grove, overall grade level winners will be featured during the Cedar Grove Cabaret Night on May 22nd! Also included will be performances by the Cedar Grove Singers, Recorder Club, Drama Club, and Talent Show participants!

La Vergne Primary School will hold dental exams beginning April 23. Also, K exit exams will take place May 7 - 11.

At Roy Waldron (and probably all schools in town) report cards come out on April 18. Also, April 26 is Awards Day at the school.

At Rock Springs Elementary, the Spring Fling Carnival will take place May 4. Everyone is invited. They will also be having their Rockin' Idol contest the same evening. A craft fair will being held in the gym the night of the carnival. Call 904-3820 if you are interested in having a booth at the craft fair.

La Vergne Middle School offers free before school tutoring. Call the school for more information.

At Rock Springs Middle, the Spring Dance will take place April 20. School pictures will be taken on the 26th and the Knight Hike will take place on the 27th. After April 30, the cafeteria will no longer accept checks.

At the High School, The 'Rine Scene 101 for rising freshmen will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 27 at the LHS Gym. Cost is $5. This is an interactive workshop for rising freshman at Lavergne High School. Hosted by the LHS Student Council and sponsored by LHS Administration and Faculty.

The day’s events will focus on how to make the most of your high school experience through academic preparation, community involvement, good social habits and positive goal setting. Music, prizes, food and fun will be interspersed throughout this action packed day.

Don’t miss out on this chance to prepare for the best years of your life with students who are successful now. Welcome to the 'Rines' Scene!

For more information, contact the school at 793-3515 or check the school's web site: http://www.lhs.rcs.k12.tn.us/rinesscene/Rine%27sScene101.doc.

Information courtesy of Angie Mayes at Living in La Vergne, Tennessee.

Farmers Market Anyone?

2007-04-15T22:03:00.000-05:00

I read about a month or so ago that Smyrna is working to get a Farmer's Market. I'd like to see one in LaVergne, too! I know there are several homeowners near me who put up signs during the summer offering to sell veggies and I think one actually goes somewhere once a week to sell. Another home owner usually puts up a "Free!" sign on a table when they have an overabundance.

The PERFECT spot would've been where the old Clayton Mobile Home sales center used to be, but of course that's all blocked up with big barriers now to keep the semis from parking there. It could be placed in that little park next to the creek which I think is owned by the neighborhood association (maybe they'd allow it if enough paperwork and legal docs were signed). Heck, it could even be in the parking lot of the Civic Auditorium.

In addition, you could pick just one or two days to have it open like the place I used to live and maybe only in the summer. The city could sell inexpensive permits to operate, maybe $100 for a month or $30 for one week for the local folks who are unable to do it every single week. Products could range from home grown stuff to flowers or herbs.

I think it would be a wonderful success and could really help build community.

Escapee Found in La Vergne

2007-04-14T22:14:00.000-05:00

An escapee was apprehended in La Vergne after police saw his car in an apartment parking lot on Barnett Street. Read the Daily News Journal article here.

Sales Tax Holiday

2007-04-13T13:50:00.000-05:00

I saw on KnoxViews that Tennessee has a sales tax holiday coming up this month! Go here to read what products are tax exempt! Happy shopping.

Terms of Use

2007-04-13T07:19:00.000-05:00

This is a weblog, run by regular people. The opinions expressed here in posts solely represent the views of the individual authors and not those of their employers.

This blog site is published by and reflects the personal views of the authors, in their individual capacities. It does not represent the views of their employer, and is not sponsored or endorsed by them, nor by the city. The purpose of this blog site is, quite honestly, a tool for their own enjoyment, but no representation is made about the accuracy of the information. The information contained in this blog site is provided only as general information for entertainment purposes for the bloggers' amusement, and blog topics may or may not be updated subsequent to their initial posting.

Things a reader of LaVergne, TN should know:

* If you don’t like some snark, or moments of honesty as we perceive them, you might want to move along.
* We try to keep it family-friendly, but sometimes we don’t because there are times we're in a foul mood. If you don’t like what the authors are talking about or how we're saying it, there are 50 million other blogs on the innertubes. Go check them out and then come back if you so choose. We’d love to see you again.
* This blog is not a corporate blog, a government blog, or a newspaper. It is a personal blog and it is just that - Personal. It may be filled with opinions you don't agree with and that's fine. You may comment. You may comment in a positive way. You may comment in a negative way. But if your comment attacks another person or defames their character in any way, your comment will not be released for public consumption.
* All comments on this blog, except those made by contributing authors, will be moderated. Again, if you attack another person or make a slanderous, libelous, or defamation of character comment, that comment will not be released for public consumption.
* Any items from other sites on this blog are intended to be used under a policy of “personal use.” The use of any trademarks or copyrighted material in the blog is not intended to infringe on the ownership of those trademarks or copyrights and is not meant for commercial use.
* The original content, well campers, that is copywritten by the authors but you can have what you want as long as you link back to this blog. No problem. Part of being a part of a community which we absolutely adore. But also being a part of a community is to give me credit if we wrote it. If someone else did, give them the credit. We try to do that as well. If we don’t, please let us know and we will rectify the problem. We meant no harm if it did, indeed, occur.
* We post links to a great deal of online articles and resources. Let’s be clear. We have absolutely no control over other writers’ content or belief system when we publish a post containing a link. Go at your own risk but go because we recommended it and we found value in it at the moment. Obviously there was something in it we thought was worthy and it caught our eye. Please do not hold us responsible for what other people write or think either in the future or in the past. We are only responsible for our own individual selves.
* If you send us an e-mail and ask for it to be kept private, no problem. If you send an e-mail maliciously or if it is considered a press release and if it shows up on the blog, don’t complain. It is our property at that point. You have been warned, campers. You may email us at lavergneblog(at)comcast(dot)net.
* We are not responsible for items written in the comment section. If the moderator finds it offensive, it will be deleted. If you find a comment offensive or find it offensive that comments are moderated, send us an e-mail and it will be taken under advisement. We believe everyone has free speech, even if we disagree with what they say, they have the right to say it. Free speech goes both ways, however, so personal attacks are not allowed against our guests.
* If you are a troll and are going to insult our guests, we have no tolerance and you will be asked to stop. A discussion and a debate is one thing, personal attacks are another.

Them there, my friends, are the rules. You don’t have to agree. It’s our blog. Discuss civilly.

* We really hate that we had to do this, but, alas, we did. Have to protect the authors. If we feel it necessary to update certain things later on, we will.

Many thanks to Newscoma for her advice and her text regarding this Terms of Use.

Thanks for coming by.

No More Anonymous

2007-04-12T13:21:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: We have taken the advice of one reader and have again allowed "anonymous" comments. However, the comments will now be moderated to protect people in the community from defamation of character, and against libelous and slanderous comments. Personal attacks against people will not be tolerated. Call it censorship all you want. If you want to attack someone and risk your own lawsuit, then you are encouraged to join millions of other folks by starting your own blog. Meanwhile, we hope our regular readers who are not involved in this saga continue to visit us! If not, we'll surely miss you.

Ya'll. We want open discussion, lively conversation on this blog, but not at the risk of calling other people names and ranting wildly. There was a very nasty anonymous comment made this morning (which has been deleted, and then I deleted the edited one because the person who it was directed at could still be identified) directed at a member of our community.

As a result, I've made the unilateral decision to no longer allow "anonymous" comments. If you want to say something (and we do welcome your thoughts), then you can't do it hidden behind non persona status. If you have something to say, step up to the plate and say it. No more sneaking around throwing darts at people. Sorry it had to come to this, but if you can't stand behind your words, you don't need to be saying them.

And no name-calling, please. It's ridiculous that "anonymous" felt something positive would come of flinging crap at someone. Time to grow up.

It's kind of ironic that we have to shut down "anonymous" in the same week we applaud the right to free speech. I do see a distinction, though, in having your opinion heard and attacking someone.

Open House this Sunday

2007-04-12T09:31:00.000-05:00

I'm helping an agent in my office out this Sunday by hosting an open house on one of her listings. If you're in the housing market or you know someone who is, please stop by 302 Davids Way between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. It's a beautiful home with lots of upgrades! There are so many lovely places to live in La Vergne and this one is definitely one of them! Some photos:

Notice the privacy fence in the back, all brick (with some wood), level yard, two car garage.

I love this living room. Neutral colors, fireplace, bright.

Here's the real winner... this kitchen with the black appliances is very pretty. I like having a pantry (see to the right of the stove) ... very nice.

A formal dining room is huge!

PLUS a breakfast nook.

PLUS a bonus room!

(See, I told you this house is beautiful!)

Finally, a view of the back yard!

Come by and say hello! And don't forget about the lender I know whose company is offering $5,000 toward closing costs (while supply lasts - probably mid-May). I received a phone call earlier this week about this offer, but never heard back from the caller. Let me know if you want more info because this won't last long.

And for your added info, here's a quick guesstimate... to buy a home for $110,000, your payment would be around $785 p/month (includes tax and insurance). So to buy a home for $200,000, it would be around $1400'ish. And there are plenty of other homes out there! Right now, we have 381 homes on the market in La Vergne. Lowest price is $31,500 on Old Jefferson Pike and the highest is $485,900 in Hampton Estates.

BUMP Don't Forget Rabies Vaccine

2007-04-12T09:19:00.000-05:00

I feel it is so very very important for pet owners to have their animals vaccinated against rabies that I wanted to bump this back toward the top of this blog. THIS WEEK (through Saturday), local veterinarian offices are offering rabies vaccines for $10 p/shot. It's incredibly easy to do!

We took our two dogs (Libby and Cocoa) on Tuesday. We drove up to the LaVergne Veterinary Clinic with our leashed dogs. A lovely lady was sitting at a table outside. She gave the dogs their shots, then we filled out the paperwork. $20. No tax. They have their rabies tags now. And most importantly, they're safe in case a wild animal gets in our back yard and they tangle.

DON'T FORGET!

When You Try to Control Free Speech

2007-04-11T21:15:00.000-05:00

Our sweet little blog here in La Vergne has sometimes faced controversy, from people telling other commenters to "Shut up." and saying this site is too negative blah blah blah. But we have many many times advocated the right to free speech, have encouraged conversation, the flow of ideas, and interaction with our community leaders and residents. We deeply appreciate our constitutional rights to voice our opinions, to share our triumphs and tragedies.

But (and you'll probably be seeing this in the news very soon), a middle Tennessee company has taken steps to stop free speech from one of the most eloquent bloggers in our area. See, her husband lost his job and accepted an invitation to meet with JL Kirk Associates, an employment agency that charges employment fees IN ADVANCE of helping someone find a job... (apparently this is not commonplace among headhunters). They require the spouse to attend the interview so they know they'll have full familial support etc. Katherine Coble wrote about her experience with the company and her little post was well on the way to being noted, but forgotten, as most posts generally are.

But JL Kirk didn't let free speech rest. An employee wrote a very long comment attacking Katherine Coble and posted information that most people would have considered confidential in the comment. Kat replied to the comments and a prairie dog affect began (little heads popping up to check things out). Then it got ugly ugly ugly with a capital U.

JL Kirk sent Katherine Coble an official "cease and desist" letter threatening legal action if she didn't remove her post about the company and all related comments (including, by the way, the official from the company who inexplicably commented).

Nashville is Talking picked up the story. So did Newscoma. Instapundit. Bill Hobbs. Aunt B. The Knoxville News-Sentinel. Home-Ec 101. Blogs in South Carolina. Politician Bob Krumm. Did I mention that the company has already started a new word? When you've "Kirked" something, you've screwed up in a major way. And the list goes on: Say Uncle, Smiffster, Toys in the Attic, Salems Lots, the best librarian ever (Women's Health News), and the wonderful Lynnster. Also our local girl Ginger posted.

So let this serve as a reminder that free speech is an honored, almost-sacred right in this glorious nation. Be careful what you say, but always remember that you have the right to speak your opinion. Your voice matters.

UPDATE: The story continues to grow. Google now has over a million hits when JL Kirk is typed, including reports from the Better Business Bureau about the company. Seriously, people need to be aware of the power of the Internet when taking a stand that appears to be "bullying." I seriously wonder if the company will survive this Internet typhoon.

La wsuits Come and Go

2007-04-11T10:24:00.000-05:00

The woman who was pulled over in January for a traffic citation and ended up being pulled out of her car, allegedly kicked and thrown to the ground also says she suffered a miscarriage because of the incident. As a result, she has filed a million dollar lawsuit against the city of La Vergne and the arresting officer (who no longer works for the city). Read about it in today's Daily News Journal here.

In other news, Mayor Ronnie Erwin was not indicted by a grand jury on simple assault after a former county commission candidate said he "grabbed her right arm while attempting to take an envelope from her," according to the DNJ. You can find that article here.

Vendors Wanted for Upcoming Event

2007-04-10T16:20:00.001-05:00

From the city:

Participants are needed for the 2007 National Night Out, scheduled for Aug. 7 at Veteran's Memorial Park in La Vergne.

"We are looking for vendors who want to display their safety-related items such as locksmiths, lock and deadbolt sales people and alarm companies," said Co-coordinator Angie Mayes. "The vendors are not allowed to sell items during the event -- which is from 6 - 10 p.m. -- but are welcome to display their items for future sales."

We are also looking for entertainment -- such as the karate classes in La Vergne or radKids, which is a children's self-empowerment class, sponsored by the La Vergne Police Athletic League.

PAL wil also have a booth at the event, as will the La Vergne Rescue Squad, Box 100 and various groups from the La Vergne Police Department such as their Special Operations Group (SOG).

Anyone interested in being a part of this year's event is asked to call Mayes at 287-8690.

Blood Drive at High School

2007-04-10T07:19:00.000-05:00

La Vergne High School is sponsoring a blood drive and needs your help! They don't want to be "out-donated" by a certain other neighboring school, so adult volunteers are needed! Here's the snip from the LHS PTO Prez:

Recently Smyrna High School held a Blood Drive at their school. There was a write-up in the DNJ about what a great job donating blood the Smyrna High student body did. Well, we all know that our LHS Wolverines will not be out done. Parents please support your children in this effort.

The American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held at LHS on Wednesday April 11, 2007. Parents are needed between the hours of 8:00 am & 1:00 pm. If your schedule allows, we'd love to have your help for the entire Drive or an hour or two. Any amount of your time would be appreciated. If you have questions please contact Betty Gray @ 459-0349 or Pam Furlong @ 459-3370/268-5488.

Come on La Vergne! Go give some love - give your blood to a very worthy cause. And let's hope that it won't be someone we know and love who needs to use it (but be happy it's there if they do).

Vaccination Reminder

2007-04-09T07:24:00.000-05:00

Don't forget! You can have your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies this week for $10 each at many of our local veterinarian offices! The La Vergne Veterinarian is one of 17 places you can go for this affordable service.

According to the morning news, rabies is not uncommon in Rutherford County, so you are urged to keep your pet's shots updated. Read the Daily News Journal article here for a complete list of offices participating in the $10 rabies shot program.

Happy Easter

2007-04-08T08:55:00.000-05:00

May your Easter be filled with joy and chocolate bunnies, jelly beans and many blessings!

First Meeting Scheduled...

2007-04-06T08:39:00.000-05:00

Plan to be there for the first planning meeting for "National Night Out Against Crime"! The meeting is at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 21st at the Parks & Rec Building on Sand Hill Road (next to the trash place). We'd love to have a great showing from people who read and write for this blog - time to see where the rubber hits the road, where the money is where the mouth is, where we walk the walk, not just talk the talk. (Can't think of any more cliches). Angie Mayes has been given approval to start planning this event and we really want to make it one of the best best ever.

At the initial meeting, Angie says we are talking to the organizer from previous years, writing a letter to contact potential vendors about setting up informational exhibits, figure out who has provided food before and who can contact them, and invite various emergency entities. Go read her comment under the original post here to learn more.

I have an incredibly busy day that Saturday, but do plan to attend. Let's not leave Angie hanging on this one and do what we can to help. Heck, think of the benefits: Get to know some of the hardest working people in the city, Get to know some of the people behind this blog and see that we're just a bunch of regular folks (Who are we kidding? We're cool and maybe it will rub off on you - bwaaaa haaaa haaaa!) (obviously a joke because who says "cool" anymore except extreme nerds?), and This would be a great resume builder too!

Meanwhile, don't forget our photo scavenger hunt! People are getting closer.... I'll give a hint. It can change like the weather.

Photo Scavenger Hunt

2007-04-03T17:23:00.000-05:00

Okay, so no one guessed the last photo (although some of the contributing authors KNEW) so no one wins. I'll save it again for another day. So we have a new picture and this time, we have REAL PRIZES! I know you don't believe me from my post immediately before this one, but I'm serious. No, really I am. Prizes!

Whoever is the first to guess where the following photo was taken wins a DVD movie. I won't vouch for whether it's a GOOD movie, but you'll win anyway! Here's the photo (again this one shouldn't be too hard!).

Now I just know you know where this is, La Vergne! Come on! Don't be shy!

Lots of Free Food and Prizes!

2007-04-03T15:40:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: The official word from the city follows.

Volunteers are needed to help plan the 2007 National Night Out Against Crime, according to event organizer Angie Mayes.

Anyone interested in being a part of this year's event -- which will take place on Aug. 7 from 6 - 10 p.m. at Veteran's Memorial Park -- is urged to contact Mayes at amayes@lavergne.org.

The National Night Out is a 24-year-old stand against crime in which citizens are urged to take back their neighborhoods from the criminal element. It has been observed in La Vergne for more than a decade.

"I'm hoping that this year's event will be well attended by members of the community," Mayes said. "We hope to have demonstrations by emergency personnel, samples of ways to protect your home by vendors and more."

The initial planning meeting will take place April 21st at 10 a.m. at the La Vergne Parks and Recreation Building, 294 Sand Hill Road in La Vergne. For more information, contact Mayes at 287-8690 or 207-4678 (8a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

... And now back to the original post... Okay, not really any free food or prizes, but I really really really really want you to read this whole post!!!

The city is looking for help with the National Night Out Against Crime coming in ... ummm... when is it? Some background - this was the event last year that really began the partnership between this blog and the city. I had said that Smyrna was having one that we weren't invited to, not knowing that our own La Vergne also had one (we hadn't carefully read the town's newsletter that the Mayor et al send.).

They need help. They need OUR HELP. What say you, blog readers? Can we show them what we're made of and step up to the plate making this the best event ever?! Please comment or shoot me an email at kathzy(dot)tysozn(at)comcastz(dot)netz (and remove the Z's - protecting myself from the evil email spammers). Or you can email Angie Mayes at amayeszz(at)lavergnez(dot)orgz. (same deal with the Z's -get rid of 'em).

I'm talking to Ginger, Ivy, Chip, View from the Lake, and readers Jennifer, John, I'm Just Sayin', Michael, Sandra, Cyndi, and yes even Anonymous! Come on, let's show some love to our community. Time to put our ::money:: (time) where our mouth is!

La Vergne is also looking for more volunteers, according to the Living in La Vergne blog:

The City of La Vergne is looking for volunteers for boards and committees. The openings are as follows:

One person is needed for the Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA).
Two people are needed for the Employee Review Board.
Two people are needed for the Greenway Advisory Committee.
Two people are needed for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.
Three people are needed for the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee.

To apply, please stop by City Recorder Bruce Richardson's office in La Vergne City Hall, 5093 Murfreesboro Road, La Vergne. His number is 793-6295. His office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS available now to buy home

2007-04-03T13:10:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: To answer a question in the comment section, this is for homes in any area of middle Tennessee, but through one specific lender.

One of my favorite lenders came to our meeting this morning to tell us about the "Welcome Home Program" his company is sponsoring. For a limited time (probably until mid-May or when the money runs out), down payment assistance up to $5,000 will be available for buyers. A buyer would, of course, still have a passable credit score and there are a couple more requirements:

The borrower must owner occupy the home (no investors for renting)
Homebuyer education required for first-time homebuyers
A portion of the grant may have to be paid back if the home is sold or refinanced in the first five years (ask mortgage consultant for details) (the lender told us this was R.A.R.E.)
The borrowers' annual household income cannot exceed $49,280
The borrower must have an investment of at least $500 in the transaction (and up to $300 can be a "gift" from a family member)
The $500 investment required is waived if the borrower is disabled
First come, first served basis - extremely limited.

If you are one-iota interested in this, pick up the phone and call as soon as possible because the free five grand won't be around long. I can be reached at (615) 491-2161 and my office number is (615) 459-4040 (ask for Kathy T.).

Rabies Clinic Offered

2007-04-03T12:57:00.000-05:00

I found this from Living in La Vergne's site and thought it was important that everyone be informed about it!

The La Vergne Veterinary Clinic, located on Murfreesboro Road, will hold its annual Rabies Clinic April 9 - 14 at their office. Cost for the rabies shots is $10 and must be done on a yearly basis. Cats and dogs can receive rabies shots.

The clinic's hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 793-5333.

Little Bunny Foo Foo

2007-04-03T12:47:00.000-05:00

Little Bunny Foo Foo went hopping through La Vergne, but didn't get bopped on the head. Instead, dozens of children converged at Veteran's Park for Easter fun this past Saturday. Here are some pictures from the city for your enjoyment!

Okay, I :::was::: going to post some photos, but this blog software is hiccuping.... so go to the Daily News Journal to see the photos here OR to the Living in La Vergne blog.

Kids Learn to Fight (off attackers)

2007-04-03T12:41:00.000-05:00

The "radKids" self-defense class is being offered in La Vergne beginning this Thursday at 7:00 p.m. The class will be held in the Multi-Purpose Building (next to the ball field behind City Hall). The classes will teach kids ages 7 to 12 how to escape from stranger danger, and more!

For more information about the classes (April 5-7), contact Sgt. Gerry Howse at (615) 287-8730 and leave a message. Space is limited, so call now!
Read the article about the class (sponsored by the La Vergne Police Athletic League) in the Daily News Journal.

FEMA Changes Flood Map

2007-04-03T12:33:00.000-05:00

From the city:

Due to recent changes by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in their flood map areas, many homeowners have received letters from their mortgage companies stating the need flood insurance. Homeowners are also being asked to submit elevation certificates and are contacting the City of La Vergne for these certificates. The city does not issue these certificates.

To obtain an elevation certificate, you must contact a licensed surveyor and La Vergne does not have one on staff.

If you, as a homeowner, have received a letter from your mortgage company, these are suggestions that can help you obtain what you need:

1. Contact a licensed surveyor listed in the Yellow Pages of the phone books and tell them what you need. The company will give you a price. With this, you can decide if you want to hire one.

2. Contact George S. Law (615) 837-4732. He is a hydrologist with USGS Water Science Center in Nashville which will have maps that will show elevations of your area.

3. Make your mortgage company prove to you that you are in a flood area. After all, it was their maps and licensed cureyor that helped them determine that you were in the flood area.

La Vergne Cleaners Robbed

2007-04-02T11:23:00.000-05:00

From the city:

The La Vergne Police Department received a call at 7:30 a.m. today about a local business owner being the victim of an armed robbery. The victim stated that as she was opening the back door of the U.S. Cleaners on Murfreesboro Road, four men -- three Asian and one black individuals -- approached her, brandishing handguns and demanding money and keys.

The victim complied with the robber's request and they left in a small, white or cream colored sedan. There was no known direction of travel.

The robbers were described as three Asian men 5'3" - 5'4" with a small build. One of the men was wearing a dark blue hoodie with flowers on it; another was wearing a dark brown hoodie and the third was wearing black hoodie. The black man -- 5' 10", between 200-215 pounds with a stocky build -- was wearing a black bandana over his face.

Police are looking for possible surveillance video in the location of the robbery. Anyone with any information on this crime is asked to call the La Vergne Police Department at 793-7744.

Where are all the Chinese?

2007-04-01T08:15:00.000-05:00

I like racial diversity. I think it makes life spicy. I've recently bought in Lake Forest. Gasp, you read me correct! And you see, I've been hopeful about the houses that remained for sale on my street.

So far, things are well with the new neighbors. I have black folks behind me who are older and very nice. To my left or to my right there are white folks (none have children so far). Two houses to my left are Hispanic folk that are quite colorful and happy! Across the street and to the left there is a handicapped white fellow and to his right there is another black couple. And the other day, I think I caught a glimpse of my new neighbors. I had been hoping that a Chinese or Indian family would move in. However, I think this family may be white. Sigh... Where are all the Chinese people and can you please move to Lake Forest? Let's have a block party and cook up some Indian, Thai, Chinese and Mexican (food that is)... I'll bring the burgers and chips!

La Vergne Housing Numbers

2007-03-31T12:27:00.000-05:00

Wanted to give a quick update on where our housing market in La Vergne is today.

Homes sold in March 2007: 56
Homes sold since January 1, 2007: 160
Homes sold in March 2006: 100
Homes sold from Jan. 1 - March 31, 2006: 237

Clearly, we've a a decline in the housing market since this time last year.

Homes currently on the market: 369
Homes on the market, but pending: 85 (these could include lease-purchase homes or regular homes that are nearly ready to close)

Lowest home price is $49,500 for a mobile home on a decent track of land on Hollandale Road.
Most expensive home is $485,900 in Hampton Estates off of Jones Mill Road.

By comparison, Smyrna has 372 homes on the market (as of right now 12:35 p.m. 3-31-07) and 210 homes have sold since January 1, 2007.

Please comment if you have questions!

Parts for a Lawnmower

2007-03-31T11:07:00.000-05:00

Anyone have any idea where I might get parts for my yard machine lawn mower?

Live Music, Good Fun!

2007-03-30T08:25:00.000-05:00

I know this is not exactly "La Vergne" news, but I wanted to let everyone know about a music event coming tomorrow night. (Originally posted on Kathy's personal blog...) My brother used to practice his guitar when we were growing up to the point that I wanted to smash it… mostly only when he’d sneak up next to me and pluck out Smoke on the Water as obnoxiously as he could. I think it took my going to college and Mike joining the Air Force for us to stop finally stop our childish fights.*

Mike is now a blue collar working man who still has a passion for his music. He plays lead guitar for a very popular band in West Kentucky called 69 South - you can think what you want about the name, but fact is plans are underway to extend the Interstate 69 corridor through Kentucky, Tennessee and all the way down to Texas. (Just don’t ask which came first, the chicken or the egg.)

But I digress… the big news is that Mike’s band is playing in Nashville tomorrow night! They’ll be playing at Fuel, located at 114 Second Avenue South and the husband and I will be going to hear them play! I hadn’t heard his band since … well ever … due to those painful Deep Purple memories. But my niece booked them to play at her wedding reception a year ago and I was absolutely blown away. Blown completely away. They were amazing! They play blues, classic rock, and country according to their MySpace site. He’s so excited, nervous, overjoyed, thrilled, and (did I say) nervous about this!

I know that the blogosphere isn’t always responsive to invites (unless they’re hosted by Channel Two or the Mothership), but if you have a free evening I’d love to see you there! I’m usually a wallflower at bars, but you can spot me drinking the “near beer” or soft drink.

Meanwhile, I do hope that maybe some of you can stop by and enjoy the music!

*He still tries to aggravate with his Deep Purple shenanigans every other year or so, but now we just laugh.

**Photo from here.

We're Upgrading Our Boat to a Ship

2007-03-29T13:17:00.000-05:00

From Angie Mayes who said "The following are classes and programs offered by the Parks and Rec Department":

Clogging class is offered at the Civic Auditorium on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The class is open to all ages. Sharon Whitley is the instructor for this class.

Line Dancing is offered at the Civic Auditorium on Monday evenings from 6-9 p.m. Phyllis Petty is the instructor.

Jazzercise is offered on Monday and Thursday evenings from 6-7 p.m.; Wednesday from 5:30-6:30 p.m; and Saturday mornings 9-10 a.m. at the Multi-Purpose Building. This class is open to those 18 years and older. Jackie Dixon is the instructor and you can get more information by visiting the website http://www.jazzercise.com.

Tennessee Twirlers Inc. conducts a Baton class at the Multi-Purpose Building on Tuesday evenings from 6-8 p.m. This is a 12-week class. Call 793-3224 for more information. NOTE: Kathy's daughter takes this class and it's affordable and fun. Girls learn modeling along with twirling...

Kung Fu class is offered to those 15 and older at the Multi-Purpose Building on Monday & Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9:30. Louis Williams is the instructor.

Cindy Cinderella Talent Academy conducts a cheerleading class on Saturday mornings Civic Auditorium from 10:00-11:30 . This is a 12-week class. For more information please call Cindy at 896-4683 or visit the website at http://www.cindyscinderellas.com.

Water Aerobics is held at La Vergne High School on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7-8 p.m. This class is open to those 18 years and older.

Country Music with Larry Felix is the 1st Saturday of the month at 6:30pm at the Civic Auditorium.Civic Auditorium. This is open and free to the public.

Open Mic with Steve Burkett is the 4th Saturday of the month at 6:30pm at the Civic Auditorium. Civic Auditorium. This is open and free to the public.

Home ownership education series, fourth Satuday of each month noon - 2 p.m. at La Vergne Civic Auditorium, 283 Old Nashville Highway. For more information, call 793-3224. (Really? I think I'll go to this class...)

Definition of a "Boat Load"

2007-03-28T10:32:00.000-05:00

From Angie Mayes, La Vergne's public relations director (or title to that effect), here's a boat load of announcements about and from the city.

LHS hosts b-ball game as cheerleaders fund-raiser
The Battle of the Rivals, the annual basketball competition benefitting the La Vergne High School Cheerleader squad, will take place at 7 p.m. on April 27 at LHS. Cost to enter is $5 per person. The money raised will help LHS cheerleaders offset the costs of the program, which is not budgeted. Those interested in playing in this year's game should call cheerleading sponsor and health science teacher Sumatra Drayton at (615) 335-6160.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007

La Vergne Seniors Holding Yard Sale
The La Vergne Seniors will hold a yard sale at the Senior Center, 337 Stones River Road, from 8 a.m. to noon on May 19.

Donations for items to sell are accepted and cannot be delivered to the Senior Center before May 7. Seniors can also buy a table for $20 to sell their own item

Seniors invited to quilt at Center
Any senior interested in quilting the Senior Quilt, which will be auctioned off in September, is invited to join other seniors on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at the La Vergne Senior Center, 337 Stones River Road, in La Vergne. For more information, contact the Senior Center at 793-3048.

Monday, March 26, 2007

New rules require permits for certain items
In January, 2007, the La Vergne Codes Department adopted the International Building Codes as the codes that they enforce in the building of new homes, warehouses and other structures that may require a permit. As a result of this, a few changes were made in what structures need permits.

The following are examples that require permits and the paperwork needed to obtain the permit:

1. Fences that are six feet or higher.
2. Swimming pools that are more than 24 inches (two feet) deep.
3. Storage sheds that are larger than 120 square feet.

The paperwork needed to obtain any permit:

1. A plot plan showing the size of your lot and where the house sits on the lot with the setbacks shown and any utility or drainage easements.
2. Additional paperwork is needed on new construction amd will depend on what you plan to build as to what is needed.

If you are planning on building or remodeling, please call the Codes Department at (615) 213-2624 or stop by at 5089 Murfreesboro Road in La Vernge. Their office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The staff will be happy to answer any questions regarding whether you need a permit or not.

The La Vernge Codes Department, along with the Planning and Engineering Department, will their rules and regulations allow.

FEMA changes flood areas in La Vergne
Due to recent changes by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in their flood map areas, many homeowners have received letters from their mortgage companies stating the need flood insurance.

Homeowners are also being asked to submit elevation certificates and are contacting the City of La Vergne for these certificates. When issuing building permits, the city does not require elevation certificates to obtain the permit.

To obtain an elevation certificate, you must contact a licensed surveyor and the City of La Vergne does not have one on staff.

If you, as a homeowner, have received a letter from your motgrage company, these are suggestions that can help you obtain whay you need:

1. Contact a licensed surveyor listed in the Yellow Pages of the phone books and tell them what you need. The company will give you a price. With this, you can decide if you want to hire one.

2. Contact George S. Law (615) 837-4732. He is a hydrologist with USGS Water Science Center in Nashville which will have maps that will show elevations of your area.

3. Make your mortgage company prove to you that you are in a flood area. After all, it was their maps and licensed cureyor that helped them determine that you were in the flood area.

Interesting... I didn't realize you needed a permit from the city to put up a pool more than two feet deep.

Easter Egg Hunt Reminder

2007-03-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

We posted earlier, but as the date approaches here's a reminder:

Hop Hop Hopping to La Vergne

The Easter bunny is coming to La Vergne, so hop on down and join the fun. Here's the schedule from the city:

The La Vergne Parks and Recreation Department announces the following activities for the annual Easter Egg hunt, to be held at La Vergne's Bicentennial Park (beside City Hall) on March 31st.

Easter Egg Hut
10:00 a.m. - Ages 0 - 2
10:15 a.m. - Ages 3- 5
10:30 a.m. - Ages 6- 10

Guess the Jelly Beans
9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
(Winner announced at 10:00 am)

Lots of Fun
9:00 - 11:00 am
Egg and Spoon Relay
Egg and Nose Relay
Duck Pond
Bunny Hop
Pin the Tail on the Bunny
Arts and Crafts (sponsored by Library)

Also, don't forget the photo scavenger hunt! You have until Friday night to guess (except contributing authors...sorry!).

New Maps of La Vergne Available

2007-03-28T07:24:00.000-05:00

New city maps are available! Angie Mayes said in a comment:

We have NEW city maps that just came in Friday. They can be picked up at any city building and a lot of businesses around town. They're free at 99% of the locations. I know of a couple that may sell them, but most places (including the City) they're free. Call me at 207-4678 if you have questions. They should be updated (except for new streets added during the last two months) so that will help people get around town.

Check with the city or Angie. I also have several free maps to give out, so you can give me a shout as well if you want to get your hands on one. They look sharp (especially the ad right below the street index... hee hee).

Something Gruesome This Way Comes

2007-03-28T06:59:00.000-05:00

Or close enough anyway... Do you like to play dress up? Do you like to watch others play dress up? Do you squeal with delight whenever you see blood and gore? You might like to attend an upcoming Zombie walk in Nashville. As soon as I have the full details I will give them to you so keep checking in!

Job Fair In Nashville on Thursday, March 29th

2007-03-28T06:57:00.000-05:00

This Thursday, March 29, the Nashville Chamber will host Project Paycheck job expo at the Nashville Convention Center.

Admission is free for job seekers. Learn more online at www.projectpaycheck.com.

Help Wanted in La Vergne

2007-03-28T06:47:00.000-05:00

La Vergne Mulch & Dirt has a help wanted sign up.

5176 Murfreesboro Rd
La Vergne, TN
1-615-569-0242

Attention Commenter John Buntville

2007-03-27T21:36:00.000-05:00

Would you mind e-mailing me at ivy {at} badbadivy {dot} com? I like how you think. I'd be interested in speaking with you further.

Thanks,

Ivy

PS: Anybody else that feels like emailing me can, too. No death threats or spam, though, plz.

Golf Tourney Coming

2007-03-27T21:12:00.000-05:00

Reader and commenter Michael is looking to put together a team for the upcoming La Vergne PAL Golf Tourney. Here's a link from the blog Living in La Vergne* about the tourney. Please comment and let Michael know if you're interested!

*We've fallen off the distribution list for the city's news releases because parallel universes have collided or something. If you'd like to find them, go to the city's web page or to Angie's page here.

How to Pressure Wash Your Home

2007-03-26T15:38:00.000-05:00

In a comment, Michael said:

What these people fail to realize is that it's the people that make a community desireable to live in. If everyone in La Vergne took care of their home (pressure wash at least once a decade please!), and treated others with respect and kindness (maybe this is intended towards the 'gang' member), I think you would find houses appreciating at a higher rate, and more people enjoying living in La Vergne.

Our own Bad Bad Ivy is a prolific writer at another site called ShakYard and she recently posted about how to pressure wash a deck. We believe the same principles will apply to pressure washing a house, too.

Here's a link on the how'to's of pressure washing your deck/home. Ivy also writes for Home-Ec 101, a site containing many helpful tips that could be learned in a Home-Ec class. Go visit her on both sites!

Don't Forget the Scavenger Hunt

2007-03-26T12:30:00.000-05:00

Don't forget our new feature - the photo scavenger hunt! We've had a couple of good guesses, but they were unfortunately not correct. (Nice try!) I know Chip knows where it is, but since he's an author on this site, he's ineligible (we don't want to be accused of being unfair) (and that means our own sweet Ginger is also ineligible ... :::weeping:::). But YOU can guess!

Give it a try here!

Come on La Vergne... you know you want to!

Protecting Cemeteries from Growth

2007-03-26T07:42:00.000-05:00

Today's Tennessean wrote about how La Vergne's growth is bumping up to cemeteries. The city is seeking feedback and talking about the issue at a meeting 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday (March 27th) with the city's Planning Commission.

Read the article here or plan to attend the meeting which is being held at the Codes Building on Murfreesboro Road.

PS - Snazzy new look Tennessean!

How to Stop Hunting Next to Houses

2007-03-26T07:24:00.000-05:00

La Vergne'ite John Buntville brought to our attention that hunting is permitted on that strip of TWRA land (on the "other" side of Stones River Road across from Lake Forest subdivision). While it is the right of every legal, law-abiding U.S. citizen to carry arms (and hunt), that proximity to one of the biggest subdivision in the United States really is a serious concern.

Here's what Mr. Buntville says:

It was in committee last week. I don't know about you but it scares the hell out of me to know people with rifles and shotguns are shooting toward your homes. They hunt deer, turkey, etc. They're supposed to stay so far (it's either 50 or 100 feet) from homes, but if you think about it that's not too far, given the fact that the road's what, 24 feet wide? And what hunter's going to measure how close he is to the road?

We would like to encourage people of La Vergne to contact their state senators and here's how:

Senator Bill Ketron
311 War Memorial Building
Nashville, TN 37243-0213
Phone (615) 741-6853
Fax (615) 253-0282
Staff Contact: Shirley Jacobs
Email: sen.bill.ketron@legislature.state.tn.us
Web: http://www.senatorbillketron.com/pages/Home

Sen. Jim Tracy
309 War Memorial Building
Nashville, TN 37243-2016
Phone (615) 741-1066
Email: sen.jim.tracy@legislature.state.tn.us
Web: http://www.legislature.state.tn.us/senate/members/s16.htm

We encourage you to not put this off since it's already in committee... contact your Senator as soon as possible. We aren't asking for hunting to be prohibited in Tennessee Wildlife areas... just that it be prevented in areas that are so close to subdivisions as is the area next to Lake Forest.

La Vergne Veterinary Clinic

2007-03-25T12:02:00.000-05:00

On Thursday I had my first visit to the La Vergne Veterinary Clinic. The circumstances which led to the trip are a bit gruesome so if you have a weak stomach you might not wish to read beyond the address and phone number.

La Vergne Veterinary Clinic
5046 Murfreesboro Road
La Vergne, TN 37086
Phone: 615-793-5333
Office Hours: M, T, W, Th, F 7:30 am - 6:00 pm and Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

I have lived for 36 years and have never once found a cat in the dryer. That is until Thursday.

I have three cats. Two of which are quite smart and have learned to use the toilet! Yes! The toilet. The oldest was taken in off the street. We are not quite sure of her age but she is at least six. With the greatest affection we named her slug.

Early that morning my husband had taken some clothes out of the dryer and left the laundry room door and the dryer door open. I'm not in the habit of doing either and so I thought nothing of it when I closed the dryer door and started the load to knock some of the wrinkles out of the load. Then I turned and shut the laundry room door.

I sat back down to my book and gave little attention to the dryer though it did sound as if the clothes were falling heavily in the dryer, there were no other sounds to indicate that a live creature was in the machine. After a period of time passed that seemed sufficient that the wrinkles would be out I got up and went to the dryer and began to fold. I had folded three articles of clothing before she crawled out of the machine.

It was slug, the oldest of them all and the smartest of any that I've ever had. It took me a moment to process what I was seeing. She hopped to the floor and I playfully asked her what she was doing in there before the realization struck me that the clothes in my hand were hot and she was in trouble. She let loose a long howl of a meow and walked into the kitchen and fell to the floor panting, drooling and bleeding...

Quickly, I got her a bowl of water but she did not drink. I felt certain that my cat was going to die. On Wednesday my car had broke down and I was there, without a vehicle. I had to call my husband and deliver the news. This is his cat and their relationship is one to be jealous of at times. He came home quickly.

While waiting for him to come home I contacted the La Vergne Veterinary Clinic. They advised me to put cool towels over her until I could get her there. In less than ten minutes from the time we left our house we were there and they were ready.

They did all they could do to reassure me, the one who nearly killed the cat, that this was not the first time they'd seen this happen. The doctor, Doctor Tim Prater, was a very calm man with a round and friendly face and soothing voice came to talk to us. We had a few things working in our favor, for instance, she wasn't in very long and there were quite a lot of clothes in the dryer so some of the trauma was absorbed.

She was kept for a few hours and released then seen the next day. The cost for everything came to approximately $90 which I say isn't too bad at all. Our cat today is doing very well and even wanting to go outside.

With that, please check your dryers if you have cats and know that there are people nearby who are kind and knowledgeable to help you if you ever need treatment for your animals.

In Which We Respond to Comments

2007-03-25T10:08:00.000-05:00

By Kathy T. and Ivy

First (and again), we want to thank the folks who read this blog. We believe your thoughts, concerns, jokes, comments are very important and we welcome them. It shows that you have a vested interest in this community called La(space)Vergne. But we do want to address some comments made this past week. Shall we?

From the post Skate Park Meeting in which we wrote about an upcoming meeting where the city and citizens would talk about skate park concerns, a lively discussion occurred. The first two comments were very informative where John shared about some things coming up in the city (thank you, John & "View") ... but then the comments moved to other things:

From Anonymous:

If you want to see ducks, go to the boat ramps. There is a major greenway system in the plans, but sidewalks come before tree-lined walkways. If you want to walk in the woods, try the trail beside Hurricane Creek Boat Ramp. If you want something to piss you off, note that hunters are still allowed to hunt on the property because it's protected by the TWRA. I can't beleive people are shooting guns at wild animals so close to your homes. That's crazy.

WHAT? Hunters are allowed in the stretch of land next to Stones River Road? That IS crazy. We want to invite that anonymous writer (or anyone else with fire in their heart about the subject) to do some research on that and write a column about it for us. I mean, dang.

Next we got another comment, again Anonymous:

We need another baseball field like we need more houses in Lake Forest Estates.

What they need to do is build a real basketball court that is built to specs and goals that are to the right height.

That's fair feedback. A real voice in the community expressing that there is a real need. Good idea for a basketball court.

Now here's where the comments turn a little testy, again Anonymous:

If you have a bitch call the Parks and Rec department, if your a citizen. If not, shut up. This site is getting so negative that a lot of people I know who work for and live in the city have stoppped looking at it. It's just a bunch of neysayers bitching about things they could make a real change on if they contacted the right people.

Okay there are several statements we'd like to address. First you are only allowed to call the Parks and Rec department if you're a citizen. Fuhgetaboutit otherwise (apparently you should just "shut up"). Second, this site is getting so negative? We've posted about senior citizens getting tax help, road closures (something people really need to know), about a family who needs help after a fire, about a lottery prize winner, about ball teams forming, about spring break and a trip to the Frist Center, about a new post office not being built yet. Oh wait... maybe that one thing about the post office is negative. But ... now listen carefully because I have a secret ... our community is not just filled with people who skip along handing out pretty flowers and throwing happy pixie dust. This town is great, but it isn't all positive. We DO share a lot of positive information here, but we also link to articles from news organizations that are of interest to the community. That's how we've always been, that's how we'll continue. And we also have opinions that we'll share... for example Ivy just posted ideas on how to raise revenue for the city.

Which brings us to our next point (and back to the "Anonymous" comment):

This site is getting so negative that a lot of people I know who work for and live in the city have stoppped looking at it.

Dear, dear Anonymous... you are always screeching about how we should pick up the phone and call people if we have a concern. We want to introduce you to the concept that reading this and other blogs are fantastic ways for city officials to learn about what people in the community are thinking about. If a city official has this type of feedback tool that's he/she is aware of that's only a click of the mouse away, and he/she refuses to look at it - then he/she is foolish. Further, maybe we should consider replacing that person(s) in the next election ... I don't know about you, but we want people in office who are willing to listen to what the people in their community think, regardless of the forum in which it is voiced.

Next, let's move on to more Anonymous comments:

If they patrol Clayton Estates more often, the criminal element will more than likely leave.....and migrate to Lake Forest. Do you REALLY WANT THAT?

I'm just sayin'....

This post was followed by another Anonymous post:

Hello...Clayton Estates is private property i.e. -- it used to at least have its own security guard and local and county police were not allowed to patrol.

And another:

no offense to the La Vergne police. But, do you think if they patrol the trailer parks more often, the crime will be kept to a minimum and maybe the "bad guys" would leave??

And finally (from Michael):

We also have way too many trailer park zones. A La Vergne cop once told me if they could pick up Clayton mobile home park and move it out of the city, we would have virtually no crime problem.

Kathy called a friend who lives in Clayton Estates (and please note that there are a LOT OF GOOD people who live there). She said that the old management did not allow police to patrol, but they've had new management for several several months now. The mobile home park has removed speed bumps, at the request of the city, to allow patrol cars easier access to patrol. There is a city police officer who lives there, as well, so the residents often call upon that officer with concerns and problems. She said that a lot of the "riff-raff" is no longer there since the new management came on board, but doesn't know what will happen once summer gets here because sometimes school-aged children do cause trouble. She also said (and are you sitting as you read this?) that most of the problems they have now "come from Lake Forest." Oh snap.

We do not want to appear to be elitist and try to make one neighborhood look superior to another. What we do want is what Ivy said in the comment:

LMAO@ the 7:48 am anonymous. No, we'd like the police to have enough funding to do their jobs and keep the criminal element out of La Vergne. Sheesh.

Let me say that again: We want the police to have adequate funding so that they can do their jobs and keep the criminal element out of ALL of La Vergne. The police have set up a gang unit and we applaud them for that. They do patrol Clayton Estates, maybe they should step up more patrols, but the management has invited them to come in and has made it easy for them to come in. Some officers have sometimes been over-zealous in their jobs, but the majority of our police force are very fine, caring, dedicated individuals. Try not to let the one or two rotten apples spoil the image for the rest of the force. And while we're at it, did anyone ever hear why our police chief quit?

Thankfully, that's all we have. Go ahead and comment, but we ask you to not do it anonymously. If you want your opinion to be given any credibility, sign your name. We're battening down the hatches now. Buh-bye.

LaVergne's Own Photo Scavenger Hunt

2007-03-24T13:04:00.000-05:00

A friend of this site who lives in Nashville features a photo scavenger hunt weekly on his site. Because imitation is the highest form of flattery and because this site is often accused of being negative*, I'm starting our own LaVergne Photo Scavenger Hunt!

This first picture (photo credit to Bad Bad Ivy) should be pretty easy. It was taken last June 2006 after a storm with high winds came whipping through town.

The first person to comment accurately where this picture was taken (contributing authors not eligible) wins! What do you win, you wonder? Your choice of two things:

A one-time column on this blog sharing what you enjoy about LaVergne, what your concerns for the city are, why you moved here, anything you'd like. If your column is well-written, then you could be invited to be a contributing author as well!
A feature story about you for a project I'm working on called "Earned Wrinkles." It's a work in progress, but you can read some of the "wrinkle" stories here.

Sorry, no money or prizes that you can actually touch (you could touch the computer screen or print out what is written). If you really wanted, though, I could give you a pad of my Realtor notepad I send to people. Woot! But seriously, join in the fun!

*Seems that most of the negative comments come from just one person ...

A Word About Codes Violations...

2007-03-23T21:06:00.000-05:00

From the City:

As a reminder to the residents of La Vergne , the nicer weather brings an increase of complaints from citizens about municipal code violations by their neighbors. Some of the most common complaints are as follows:

1. Trash. Municipal code requires trash to be stored in approved containers with lids.
2. Junk Cars. Vehicles stored outside must be operable.
3. Tall grass. Grass and weeds must be cut on a regular basis during the growing season. This includes drainage easements and right of ways.

Failure to comply with these rules may result in a city court citation. For more information, contact Mike Jenkins at the Codes Department at 213-2624.

Raising revenue for the City of La Vergne

2007-03-22T18:40:00.000-05:00

Hi all! BadBadIvy here.

I know, I only seem to show up when there's something dramatic to be said, but that's just how I roll. I've been thinking about the city's revenue problems, and I think I have some solutions, so listen up, city officials.

1. Raise the price of building permits. I'm not talking about gigantic raises in costs, I'm talking about a fairly small raise, say $100. So many houses are going up that this should bring significant money to the city.

2. Raise taxes, for God's sake! Again, not a major raise. Raise taxes 2 cents on the dollar. That's not going to hurt anyone terribly badly, but with all the homes in La Vergne, it should bring a good amount of money in. And do so for the next, say, 10 years. Property taxes are already ridiculously low in La Vergne, which is fab, but we need more police, a good community center, a community pool. There needs to be more things to do here so we can combat crime and have a sense of community here.

3. Institute a parking permit so people can park on the streets. Have people pay $25 a year to have a parking permit and put up signs, "Parking on this side of the street with permit only." There are certain streets that are too narrow to have parking on. That's fine. You can only park where there are signs and as long as you have a permit. Just sitting out on my front porch this evening I counted seven cars parked on the street. Think about how much money you could raise if you instituted a parking permit.

4. And while we're at it, enforce the parking ordinance! Drive down my street at any time, and you will find plenty of cars parked illegally on the streets. I've posted about it before here, at one of my other blogs. People think the ordinance is ridiculous, and so do I, especially since you do not enforce it. Hire enough people to enforce the law and write tickets- they will pay for themselves, I guarantee it. If people don't pay their tickets, tow their cars. Just on my street, you should be able to raise enough money to buy a community pool.

I hope you're listening, city officials. These are solid ideas that will work. No need to even credit lil' ol' me for the ideas. Just get to work on raising some money for the city. I'd like a pool to swim in.

Interesting Story About The Name of Our City!

2007-03-22T17:01:00.000-05:00

From the City of La Vergne:

The official spelling of La Vergne is 20 years old this year,according to an issue of the now defunct Rutherford Courier, dated Nov. 5, 1987. The change was officially adopted by the City Commissioners on Nov. 1, 1987 and changed the spelling of the name from "LaVergne" or "Lavergne" to "La Vergne." The city, whose history dates back 200+ years, was named after Francis Leonard de Roulhac de la vergne.

The U.S. Post Office officially named the city La Vergne in August of 1852, on the day that Mr. Roulhac died, according to "Green Trees," a La Vergne book written by the late Shirlie Runnels Chaney. The book is available at the La Vergne Library, 5063 Murfreesboro Road, for $20. Proceeds benefit the La Vergne Library. Ironically, the name on the front cover of the book -- printed in the 1990s -- is spelled "LaVergne."

The city celebrated its 35th year of incorporation on Feb. 1 with a celebration at the library.

La Vergne's Historical Preservation Committee is researching it's history by collecting and scanning items from local residents. Anyone with anything (photos, letters, etc.) to scan can bring them to the La Vergne Parks Department, 294 Sand Hill Road, and drop them off. Be sure to include a phone number so that after the scanning is done, the owner of the materials can be contacted to pick them up. The committee meets at the Parks and Recreation Building at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month, unless otherwise noted.

"We've had two Show and Tell events and have had a lot of success with them, but we know there is still a lot of the history we have to capture," said committee chairman and Alderman Dennis Waldron. "We invite anyone who anything to share to do so before it's lost in time."

LA VERGNE PAL HOSTING GOLF TOURNEY

2007-03-22T16:59:00.000-05:00

The La Vergne Police Department’s Police Athletic League will host their eighth annual golf tournament fund-raiser on Friday, April 20, 2007 at Smyrna Golf Course, in Smyrna, Tenn.

Registration begins at 11:00 a.m. at the golf course. The putting contest begins at 12 noon. The shotgun start begins at 1p.m. Awards and door prizes will follow the scramble.

“The golf scramble entry fee includes registration, lunch, cart rental, green fees, door prizes and awards,” said PAL coordinator Gerry Howse. “Mulligans are $5 each. They must be used prior to holes 9 and 18 and cannot be used on specialty holes.”

There will be one hole-in-one prize, closest to the pin, longest drive and other prizes.

The scramble is limited to 36 teams, with four golfers per team. Teams will be confirmed only on a first paid basis. There is still space in the tourney and teams may sign up the day of the event. Cost is $75 per player or $300 per team. Hole sponsorships are $150 each.

“The fund-raiser is a fun way to help support our program, which serves La Vergne youth 7 - 17 with a variety of activities including sports, chess, drama, games, movie days and more,” Howse said. “In addition, we offering mentoring for young people in need. The tourney is also a good way to inform the public of the need for bigger and better facilities to help today's young people. We appreciate the public’s participation in this golf scramble and know that they’ll enjoy this year’s event.”

For more information or to register, call 287-8730 and leave a message.

ROAD CLOSURE ALERT

2007-03-22T15:17:00.000-05:00

From the city of LaVergne:

Beginning Monday, March 26, part of Fergus Road (off Murfreesboro Road) in La Vergne will be closed to all traffic from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. due to NES rewiring the power lines in the area. The section to be closed will be from George Thomas Drive to Sand Hill Road. This section of road could be closed for up to a month, according to La Vergne Public Works Director Bob Burns.

From Murfreesboro Road, Heritage Valley-area residents can take George Thomas Drive to their homes.
For Lake Forest residents, drivers can take Jones Mill Road to Morningside Drive to Hollandale Road to the three-way stop at Hollandale Road and Bill Stewart Boulevard. They may also take Sand Hill to Dick Buchanan to Murfreesboro Road to get out of the subdivision.

For more information, contact the La Vernge Public Works Department at 793-9891.

You Can Help the Walker Family

2007-03-22T09:14:00.000-05:00

Today's Daily News Journal prints an article about how to help the Walker family who lost all their belongings and home in a fire earlier this month. To help, according to the DNJ:

Two special events to help raise money for Ricky and Dawn Walker and their children Nicci and John Charles, who lost their La Vergne home to a fire March 11, will take place Saturday.

Sanctuary Church is holding a yard sale for the family. The sale begins at 7 a.m. and will last until everything is gone. The event is rain or shine and will be moved inside the church, located at 814 S. Church Street in Murfreesboro, in case of bad weather.

For more information, visit the church's Web site at www.untiltherapture.com/sanctuary. Anyone interested in donating baked goods or other items should contact Wendy Page at 615-216-7510 or via e-mail at sanctuary@untiltherapture.com.

That evening, The Father's House Church in La Vergne will hold a gospel singing benefit. It starts at 6 p.m. at the church, 599-B Waldron Road (near the La Vergne Fire Hall). James Wade will host the free event, during which a collection will be taken for the Walker family. Performers include The True Hearts, Bobby Glendy and Born Again.

For more details, visit the church's Web site at www.fathershousechurch.org.

Ricky and Dawn Walker said the family's clothing and furniture needs have been met, but they still need help stocking the pantry. Those who would like to help may deposit funds at any First Tennessee Bank location in Rutherford County.

Read the whole article to see what's been done for the family so far.

Congratulations, Dusty Fields

2007-03-21T08:52:00.000-05:00

Way to go Mr. Fields! You won a nice chunk of money this week from Powerball. Don't spend it all in one place! Read about his win here from the DNJ.

Are You a Player?

2007-03-20T11:00:00.001-05:00

The La Vergne Adult Softball League is still looking for teams for the spring season. There are plenty of spots available for the Men’s league on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. There are only two spots available for Co-ed play on Tuesday nights. Sign-ups are now extended until Friday March 23rd so teams should call ASAP to get a spot. The La Vergne Adult Softball league was formerly directed by Kelly Coats and will now be under the direction of Michael Tisdell and the City of La Vergne. Call Michael at 793-3224 for more information.

Tax Help Available

2007-03-20T10:19:00.000-05:00

Elmer Jackson has been helping the La Vergne Senior Citizens with their tax forms this season. So far, since the first of February, he has filed 58 tax forms. He will contiue to help the Seniors from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursdays through April 12.

If you are an elderly resident of LaVergne or if you know someone who is and needs tax help, go to the community's Senior Citizens' center on Stones River Road for help.

Skate Park Meeting

2007-03-20T10:12:00.000-05:00

From the city: On Thursday, April 12 at 6 pm, the La Vergne Parks & Recreation Department will hold a community meeting at the Skate Park at Veteran's Memorial Park. The City will host an open discussion with the skate park users about current issues as well as the future of the La Vergne Skate Park. They want community input and would like to hear citizen's ideas or concerns about the La Vergne Skate Park. They urge all regular users of the Skate Park and their parents to attend. In case of rain, the meeting will be moved to Pavilion A (by the playground).

My own questions: I think the skate park was a brilliant idea as a recreation option for our young residents. If the skate park is being abused, though, have police patrols been increased (I'm sure they have)? Does the park have set hours of operation? If they skate park is there, why did my Girl Scout troop have to dodge the boys on their skateboards while we sat in front of Movie Gallery a few weeks ago at our cookie booth? What about setting up an office for our recreation department in that vicinity so they can keep an eye on things? I know these are big budget questions, but a big picture approach could be helpful.... is anything else planned at Veteran's Park?

The Frist Center and Other Things That Are Fun

2007-03-19T12:08:00.000-05:00

I'm on vacation this week, thank goodness. In just a few moments I plan to look up nearby parks in the LaVergne area and see where I might take the kiddies.

On Wednesday, I might take the kids to the Frist Center. I hear it is free on Wednesday. If any of you bloggers have time and would like to get together for a trip to the first, let me know.

Now, as you know, I live in Lake Forest. I've not sat down at looked at what other communities have done to combat gangs but really need to do so. I was thinking that neighborhood watch programs would be a good start. I haven't seen any neighborhood watch signs in the area where I live.

Do you live in Lake Forest? Has your neighborhood started a neighborhood watch? Tell us about your struggles or successes.

Next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting Date Set

2007-03-19T11:52:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who came out Saturday, March 17th to join us at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN for another installment of the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting. Joining us were:

Ginger of Ginger Snaps (who also hosted Nashville is Talking)
Michael of Big Orange Micheal and This is Smyrna, TN
John H. of Salem's Lots
Amy of Bad Bad Ivy
Elizabeth of Harelip Frog
Gunner of No Quarters and This Is Smyrna, TN
and myself of LaVergne, TN

Amy of Bad Bad Ivy
Michael of Big Orange Michael and This is Smyrna, TN
Ginger of Ginger Snaps
Elizabeth of Harelipfrog
Gunner of No Quarters and This Is Smyrna, TN
John of Salem's Lots

Among things discussed were Atlas Shrugged, The Fountainhead, Peru, moving to Costa Rica, Gardening Blogs, Citizen's Police Academy, Gun Owner's Association, Up With People, Habitat for Humanity, and much much more...

If you did not make it, join us on Saturday, April 28th at 2:00 PM at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN for another installment of the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting. It is fun and we love to have new people.

Those who were missed, Chip and Kathy T.

No New Post Office ... Yet

2007-03-17T06:53:00.000-05:00

City planners have denied the permit to build a new post office on Floyd Mayfield Drive, according to the Daily News Journal. The plans provided for only two more parking places than the current post office provides, so the architects were asked to add more. When they didn't, they were turned down.

Read the article here.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2007-03-17T06:23:00.000-05:00

Show and Tell Day has arrived! Residents are encouraged to come to LaVergne's Civic Auditorium on Old Nashville Highway and bring their treasurers of the community. The event opens at 3:00 p.m. and residents are encouraged to share old photos, news clippings, etc. to share with the Historical Preservation Advisory Committee. They will be scanned in and returned to the owners. For more information, call 793-3224.

And while you're out and about, the Library is having its used book sale today, March 17th from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Want to meet some fun people who happen to blog? The monthly meeting of the Middle Tennessee Bloggers & Podcasters Group is scheduled today at 2:00 p.m. at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna.

Finally, I have SEVEN free (yes, free) tickets to the Up with People performance today. The 3:00 p.m. show is being held at Opryland's Roy Acuff Theater. To get the FREE tickets, call me at 491-2161.

Don't miss Easter Egg Hunt on March 31st from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Park next to City Hall!

Hop Hop Hopping to LaVergne

2007-03-16T21:39:00.000-05:00

The Easter bunny is coming to LaVergne, so hop on down and join the fun. Here's the schedule from the city:

The La Vergne Parks and Recreation Department announces the following activities for the annual Easter Egg hunt, to be held at La Vergne's Bicentennial Park (beside City Hall) on March 31st.

Easter Egg Hut
10:00 a.m. - Ages 0 - 2
10:15 a.m. - Ages 3- 5
10:30 a.m. - Ages 6- 10

Guess the Jelly Beans
9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
(Winner announced at 10:00 am)

Lots of Fun
9:00 - 11:00 am
Egg and Spoon Relay
Egg and Nose Relay
Duck Pond
Bunny Hop
Pin the Tail on the Bunny
Arts and Crafts (sponsored by Library)

LHS "Scanned" for Drugs

2007-03-16T15:49:00.000-05:00

In a random selection, LaVergne High School was inspected today for illegal drugs and other prohibited items, according to the Murfreesboro Post. Today, two students were suspended - one for a small amount of marijuana and one for having a knife in his car parked on campus. A letter is supposed to be coming home today, according to the article.

Read all about it right here.

Police Chief Resigns

2007-03-15T21:27:00.000-05:00

La Vergne Police Chief Steve Lindsay has resigned effective March 15, 2007, according to La Vergne Mayor Ronnie Erwin.

"We consider Steve a friend and wish him well with his pursuits in the future," Erwin said Thursday.

Lindsay became police chief in January, 2003 and has been with the department since 1988.

Lt. Ted Boyd will take over as acting police chief, effective March 16, 2007.

HT: City of La Vergne

Banned in China

2007-03-15T08:19:00.000-05:00

This blog is banned in China. How's that for a swift kick in the butt? Oh, FYI ... the official web site for the city of La Vergne is also banned.

Here's where you can test any blog or web site: The Great (Fire) Wall of China.

Come See Us Saturday - Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting

2007-03-14T21:18:00.000-05:00

Are you a blogger or podcaster in the Middle Tennessee area? Do you have a desire to interact with your fellow blogger and podcasters face to face? If so you won't want to miss the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting on Saturday, March 17th at 2:00 PM.

Join the Middle Tennessee Bloggers and Podcasters at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna, TN at 2:00 PM and partake of the joy of face to face interaction!

Update on Burn Permits

2007-03-14T09:47:00.000-05:00

Angie Mayes sent this regarding requirements for any outdoor burning:

According to The International Fire Code and The City of La Vergne's Open Burning Ordinance #2006-05; No person shall cause, suffer or allow, or permit open burning within the entire city limits. The exceptions are cooking fires and barbecues. 2. Commercial incinerator. 3. Recreational fires (bon fires, ECT.) 4. Fire department training fires. All fires, except the ones you build in your home fireplace, HAVE TO HAVE A BURN PERMIT. This includes burning in a barrel. Burn permits are FREE and instructions are on it as to times you can burn and what you can burn, also the maximum wind limits are stated. During the times of the burn, the fire must be attended to at all times and an approved type of extinguishment must be in place. No fire can be within 50ft of a structure. If you have any questions always use common scene and err on the side of safety. Also, realize that just because you apply for a burn permit DOES NOT mean you will receive one. You can contact the La Vergne Fire Department at 793-9115 for more information. The Fire Marshal's Office number is 793 9891.

Lock Down Drill at LMS

2007-03-14T07:32:00.000-05:00

LaVergne Middle School was one of the locations of readiness drills at Rutherford County Schools, as reported here in the Daily News Journal. My daughter said it wasn't scary at all since they knew in advance that a drill of some sort would be conducted. And kudos to the schools for sending parents notes home so no one would panic when they saw fire trucks and police cars at the school.

The drill occurred during her "core" class (aka study hall). According to her reports from school, everything went well so hopefully the school is ready!

Billy Cooper Gets Guide Dog, Thanks to La Vergne Clubs

2007-03-13T11:12:00.000-05:00

By Angie Mayes, La Vergne PR Director

In May, 2004 Billy R. Cooper Jr. began losing his vision due to complications from diabetes. Today, you'd never know he's legally blind -- except for his constant companion Ace, a black lab he received from the Leader Dogs School in Rochester, Mich.

Cooper, who has worked as a rehabilitation technician and nurse's aid, said he first found out about the Leader Dogs from the Tennessee School for the Blind in Nashville. After researching a few schools, he found the Leader Dogs School, which is funded by the Lions Club, an international service organization.

Cooper was the guest of honor recently at the La Vergne Lions' Club's LEO Banquet, held at O'Charley's in Smyrna. The LEO organizations is a student branch of the Lions Club, based out of La Vergne High School. Softball and Swimming coach Brenda Morris is the Club's advisor.

After being evaluated to determined that he was legally blind and physically able to care for the dog, Cooper found himself on a plane last summer headed to Rochester to attend the school, which lasts approximately 25 days.

"The first two days, they walk with you to see your pace and see how you do." Cooper said. Then on the third day, they assign you a dog, which is already trained. For the rest of the time you're there, you work with the dog, getting used to each other and becoming companions.

Besides getting a new best friend, Cooper said he is thankful for the school, which was totally free.

"There's no cost for us to go," he said. "The Lions Club funds everything. You get three meals a day, your own room, activities and training grounds (city, parks, malls, etc.) to work with your dog. Even the dog is free."

Cooper, a La Vergne resident, is often seen by residents walking in the Woodland Hills area of town with Ace. Sometimes they call into the La Vergne Police Department out of concern for him walking along the road.

"Ace knows where to walk, where to stop, where the curbs are," he said. "If a car comes by, he'll stop to protect me from being hit."

The La Vergne Police Department is familiar with Cooper and assures the residents that he's alright walking along with his dog.

"Ace has been a big help to me," Cooper said. "He's much more than a companion, he's a friend. He's given me a great deal of mobility. He's given me a lot more freedom than before."

Although robbed of his vision, Cooper knows he’s lucky.

"You can’t let this rule your life," he said. "If you get depresses you’ll lose everything, not just your site."

Cooper is looking forward to joining the La Vergne Lions Club, which meets at 7:00 p.m. the third Monday of every month at Fire Station 2 on Waldron Road.

"I want to thank the Lions for all of their help because they were there when I needed them," he said.

Billy R. Cooper Jr. (he says if you don't remember his name, remember he's a junior because he's very proud to be his father's son) can be reached at 793-9043.

THE LEO CLUB

Now in its fifth year, the La Vergne High School LEO Club is a student organization affiliated with the La Vergne Lions Club, which is – of course – a member of Lions International, celebrating its 90th year in 2007.

The La Vergne Lions hosted some of the Club's 38 members during a banquet at O'Charley's Thursday (Feb. 22) night. The banquet was also attended by District Governor Shirley Statts and her husband – former District Governor – Gene Statts.

Of the 38 members of the club (some students have been in it all four years), 15 are new members this year. They are allowed 42 minutes a week for club meetings at the high school so it's often difficult for the kids to attend every meeting.

They are – by school board rules – allowed to have only two fund-raisers a year. The LEOs choose partnering with the parent club during the fall pecan and nut sale and work in the dunking booth during Old Timers' Day. Although they are allowed just two fund-raisers, they can accept donations at any time during the year. The money raised is for dues, club T-shirts, an annual banquet and more.

In addition, they collect old glasses to give to Les Brown, the President of the La Vergne Lions Club. The glasses are taken to Nashville and eventually end up at the recycling center in Roanoake, Va. Where they are fitted with new lenses for patients being helped by the Lions Club. The Lions Club members volunteer to do sight screening for those people who have passed through the application process.

Brenda Morris is the LEO Club's adviser. She can be reached at 589-2728.

THE LIONS CLUB

The La Vergne Lions Club, a member of Lions International has been around for a number of years. They are a small but effective club, helping needy people with eye glasses, hearing aids and putting them in contact with the Middle Tennessee Lions Sight Service, which performs eye surgery on needy patients for no cost to the patient.

Family Needs Help After Fire

2007-03-13T11:06:00.000-05:00

DNJ Reporter Mealand Ragland-Hudgins sent this:

This is information about what the Walker family needs after losing their home Sunday. Wendy is a a friend of the family and got the info for me . Her number is 216-7510, e-mail is sanctuary@untiltherapture.com

Ricky (father) needs...
shirts- XL
jeans- 34/36 waist 30 length
shoes- 9 1/2
He needs steel toe work boots before he can return to work (donation pending).

Dawn (mother) needs...
shirts- Large
pants- 12
shoes- 8 1/2 or 9

Nicci (16 year old daughter) needs...
pants- 3
shirts- small or medium
shoes- 6

John Charles (14 year old son) needs...
jeans- 32 waist 32 length
shirts- medium or large
shoes- 11

The kids shirts for school must be plain. No logos or wordage. Someone is taking care of personal clothing (underwear). They would like a microwave, hair dryer, hair brush, toiletries, food, small fridge, anything you need daily to function is needed.

The family is in a hotel in Murfreesboro. They are going to have to rent a place as insurance is NOT taking care of that for them. They found a place in La Vergne for $600.00 a month. They need the deposit, first and last months rent to get in. Plus deposits on utilities. The Red Cross give them $545 for food and clothes. If they get enough food and clothes in donation then they can use that towards the house. ANYTHING will help!

Cemetary Holds Clean Up Day

2007-03-13T11:05:00.000-05:00

The Sand Hill Cemetery Association will begin holding clean-up days at the cemetery, located at the corner of Hollandale and Fergus Roads, each Saturday during the months of March and April.

Cleanup begins at 10 a.m. Those with family members buried in the cemetery or anyone who simply wants to help is asked to come out. Dress appropriately and bring any tools you may have, including rakes, saws, shovels and hedge trimmers.

For more information, call Sandra Reed at 355-6377 or 631-2745.

View From The Lake, Lake Forest That Is

2007-03-12T20:46:00.000-05:00

Greetings La Vergne,

Today is my first post to the La Vergne, TN blog. I come from the Smyrna, TN blog, This is Smyrna, TN. I was the founder of This is Smyrna, TN and the founder of the Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group.

Recently, I moved to La Vergne. Financing, price and square footage led me to purchase in La Vergne. Now, it is my goal to bring to La Vergne that which I hoped to bring to Smyrna, a sense of community, a voice with personality and a positive outlook. I will write to be humorous, I will write to be informative and I will write to encourage discussion. I hope that you will embrace me as a member of this community as I will embrace you as my new home.

My signature from here on out will be View From The Lake. Now, can you guess which lake?

Until my next post,

View From The Lake,
Lake Forest, That is...

Fire in Farmingdale Subdivision

2007-03-12T08:23:00.000-05:00

UPDATE from Angie Mayes: Right now there is a ban on open buring in La Vergne. This has been going on for some time now (months). There are no rules about burning in a container (barrel), which is what Mr. Walker was apparently doing. The city does have an ordinance that there is to be no commerical burning without an air obstructor curtain.

What started as a fire to burn garbage ended with a destroyed home on Sunday. According to the Daily News Journal, an exhausted Ricky Walker of 581 Blake Moore Drive fell asleep after lighting his burn pile. Read the article here.

My question for the city of LaVergne: How and where do you get a burn permit? If someone can post this info in the comment section, I'll move it up into this post. Thanks!

Meanwhile, keep the Walker family in your thoughts as they deal with this loss.

Keep Brandon in Your Prayers

2007-03-08T14:38:00.000-06:00

Brandon is in severe organ rejection right now in Pennsylvania. Read more about this brave LaVergne teenager here. I am posting this additional information from the Daily News Journal, LaVergne edition*:

The family of Brandon Brewer has a trust fund set up to help the family defer the enormous cost of medical bills. Send money to:

First Tennessee Bank
c/o Christopher Brandon Brewer
770 Nissan Drive
Smyrna, TN 37167

Get-well cards can be sent to:
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
c/o Christopher Brandon Brewer
3705 Fifth Ave., Seven North
Pittsburgh, PA 15213

You can also visit Brandon’s Web site to view photos, sign his guest book and learn more about him at: www.caringbridge.org/visit/brandonbrewer

*It's not really the LaVergne edition... we just want our own newspaper. Yes, we'll take some cheese with it!

Lots of Info at "Living in LaVergne"

2007-03-07T16:10:00.000-06:00

Today is a really busy day, but I didn't want anyone to miss out on any of the events or announcements in LaVergne. To that end, I'm linking you to a great site called "Living in LaVergne" which is authored by the city's PR director Angie Mayes. Go visit her and see what's coming up on LaVergne's calendar!

I'll try to post the ton of announcements later on this site.

Smyrna A.M., not for LaVergne

2007-03-07T09:45:00.000-06:00

Since LaVergne-ites aren't privy to receiving the news from the newest paper in the area, here's what we're missing:

FROM FIRST SMYRNA A.M.

Article published Mar 7, 2007
From the Editor: Welcome to Smyrna A.M.
By JIMMY HART, hart@dnj.com

Welcome to the first edition of the Smyrna A.M.!

As we stated on today's cover, "We're growing with you!"

We're excited about this tremendous opportunity to produce a newspaper and Web site exclusively focused on one of Middle Tennessee's fastest growing towns.

But I certainly don't have to remind most of you how quickly your community is changing. The evidence surrounds you daily, from the constant dirt-moving and shaking along Sam Ridley Parkway to a YMCA that's already bursting at the seams to the recently announced plans to
build another Publix here as well as a Smyrna location of the legendary Murfreesboro eatery, Demos'.

Check out Page 3 to your right to get the skinny from reporter Mealand Ragland-Hudgins about the Publix and Demos' proposals, the latest offerings to an ever improving quality of life here.

We promise to keep you in the know about such developments in this very publication, which comes to you today after talking with a group of local residents over the past two months about what they would like to see in a weekly newspaper.

StoneCrest Medical Center was gracious enough to allow us to use its meeting space to conduct these focus groups, and after listening to the insights and viewpoints from long-time residents, returning residents and newcomers alike, we determined there were a list of key topics that
remain top of mind for many people here: growth and its impact; what's happening in local schools; local parks and recreation; and the continued influx of newcomers and their impact.

That's not to say these topics are the only ones to be covered. But they give us a framework to build upon in making our coverage decisions because we want to tell the stories that interest you. We think this first edition reflects that.

But we also want you to tell those stories!

That's right, we want this publication and accompanying Website to be filled with reader-submitted content and contributions. Local columnist Robin Garner is an example of that.

Send us information and photos from local events and youth leagues, send us your calendar listings, participate in our online discussions. Check out our Web site to find out how to contribute.

So today's edition is our first shot at telling your stories. Let me know how we did and what we can do to make it even better.

*Jimmy Hart is executive editor of The Daily News Journal. Reach him at 278-5150 or by e-mail at hart@dnj.com.*

We encourage residents of LaVergne to speak up about including our town in news coverage and DISTRIBUTING the paper to our residents (whose children attend LaVergne Primary, Waldron Elementary, LaVergne Middle, LaVergne High and the new LaVergne Lake)**. We may not have a lot of retail here, but we have solid industry, great neighbors, wonderful schools, and interesting stories of our own.

**It goes to the families with children attending Cedar Grove and Rock Springs elementary schools.

Police, Citizens Discuss Gangs

2007-03-07T08:49:00.000-06:00

A special meeting about Gang Awareness was held last night at the LaVergne City Hall. I was unable to attend the meeting, but here's a link from the Daily News Journal about what was discussed.

Gang activity has increased in LaVergne during the last six or seven months and the police department is aiming to address the problem head-on. A seven-officer gang unit has been formed, led by Cpl. Hatcher who previously worked in gang units in California and Oklahoma.

Residents are urged to contact police if they spot illegal activity through the anonymous tip line at 287-8740. Or according to the DNJ, to form a Neighborhood Watch, call the La Vergne Police Department at 793-7744.

Meanwhile, if anyone attended the meeting and wants to say more about it, please comment here and I'll move the comment into the post section.

Up with People Tickets Now Available

2007-03-06T13:19:00.000-06:00

The world-famous "Up with People" troupe is coming to LaVergne, Smyrna & Nashville! Following a week of volunteer work (they are helping to build a playground at Wherry Housing on Weakly Road in Smyrna), they will be performing two concerts at Opryland's Acuff Theatre. I have tickets available for the 3:00 p.m. and the 7:30 p.m. concerts. Tickets are $50 VIP and $20 general admission. All proceeds will go to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital.

My family will be hosting at least one "Up with People" student. I'm a little bit nervous, but I think it will be a fantastic opportunity for my daughters to meet with people from other cultures and countries. Here's what the "official" word from the Up with People website says:

"Through travel and cultural immersion, Up with People has provided students with a renowned international education and an unmatched passageway to see the world. And we've been doing it for four decades.

"As the world has changed, so too has the Up with People program. Once primarily impacting communities through its musical productions, the current Up with People program addresses the very real need for young adults and leaders who have global perspectives, intercultural understanding, knowledge of worldwide social issues, leadership skills and a dedication to community service. Today, through its distinct 22-week program, Up with People students experience personal growth, leadership training, service learning and performing arts as they travel through three continents. For many students, it's a global education that lasts a lifetime; for others, it's a life-transforming experience."

So if you're looking for something fun to do on St. Patrick's Day, give me at shout at 491-2161 to buy tickets for Up with People! It's for a great cause!

Our Own Web Superstar

2007-03-05T09:51:00.000-06:00

Move over Martha Stewart... there's a new gal in town. Our very own Bad Bad Ivy is destined to be one of the web's most-read, best-loved online do-it-yourself, homemaker goddess personalities with the launch of her brand spanking new web site: Home Ec 101.

This site is teaches you "What you wish your mama taught you" and explores subjects including getting those tricky grease stains out of clothing, cleaning the ultra-gunk from you bathtub, what to do with that leftover Kroger rotisserie chicken, and how to make dinner from a bare pantry. Home Ec 101 also features a forum allowing readers to interact, share ideas, ask questions, and converse about those "pesky" children.

Dont' walk, RUN to this snarky new site! Bookmark it! You'll thank me later.

HOME-EC 101.

Technorati Testing

2007-03-04T20:10:00.001-06:00

Testing to upload for technorati...
Technorati Profile

Read Across America

2007-03-03T20:06:00.000-06:00

From the city:

La Vergne Mayor Ronnie Erwin reads a book about voting to students in Heather Leonhart’s third grade class at Roy Waldron Elementary School on Friday morning. It was a part of the annual Read Across America campaign that takes place on March 2, Dr. Seuss' birthday. This is the 10th year for the National Education Association's Read Across America.

Gang Awareness Meeting

2007-03-02T21:09:00.000-06:00

From the city of LaVergne:

The La Vergne Police Department is hosting a gang awareness meeting, at
6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6 at the La Vergne Library, 5063 Murfreesboro
Road in La Vergne. Those attending must be at least 18 years of age.
Seating is limited. For more information, contact Cpl. Brent Hatcher at
LPD 793-7744.

Sister Site Down but not Out

2007-03-02T08:56:00.000-06:00

Blogspot has put the "This is Smyrna" blog in lockdown. Apparently, their spam robots said it had the appearance of a spam blog. One of the authors has filled out the form to be unlocked after review, but that was yesterday morning and he is still awaiting the review.

So if you also read the "This is Smyrna" blog, note that it is not dead, just "sleeping" till some blogspot employee looks at the site.

Severe Weather Shelter Open

2007-03-01T14:20:00.000-06:00

From the city of LaVergne:

Because of the current tornado watch which is on-going until 6 p.m. tonight, the City of La Vergne is opening the Multi-Purpose Building (located behind City Hall by the ball fields) to those in need of shelter during the storm. The La Vergne Police, Fire and Box 100 will be on hand to help those who need it. For more information, contact Angie Mayes at 207-4678.

Happy Birthday, Blog

2007-02-27T20:47:00.000-06:00

Our friends at the Smyrna blog posted a happy birthday wish to sister blog Lavergne-Tn. Why thank you Gunner! It was one year ago in February (actually early February) that we put up our first post about how the town got it's name.

Here's hoping for another year of interesting discussion, sharing of ideas, and celebrating what's best about LaVergne.

LaVergne Teachers Honored

2007-02-27T08:29:00.000-06:00

The "Well Done Award" this week recognizes outstanding teachers selected for "Teacher of the Year" at their respective schools. Congratulations to the following instructors whose students come (in part or in whole) from LaVergne:

Cedar Grove Elementary School
Lea Crockarell

LaVergne Middle School
Lori Scott

LaVergne Primary School
Tammy Houck

Rock Springs Elementary School
James Morris Hamby, III

Rock Springs Middle School
Richard Reed

Roy Waldron School
Melanie Jones

I haven't had the pleasure of meeting all these teachers, but I will say that Melanie Jones is OUTSTANDING. When I served as president of Roy Waldron Elementary School's PTO a couple of years ago, she and her family were there at every school-related event after the close of the school day. She has made countless bags of popcorn, served as teacher liaison on the PTO board, always has an amazing, cheerful attitude, and is well-loved by students and parents alike.

In addition, my daughter now has Lori Scott for reading and she adores the class. The amount of reading a child does seems directly proportionate with how well a child does in school, so parents please make your children read. If they don't like reading, then take 20 or 30 minutes every day to sit down and read with or to them. Ms. Scott is another teacher who deserves the accolades given through this honor.

Congratulations to all the teachers in LaVergne who were recognized! We're proud of you and we want you to know how much we appreciate your hard work with our children! If you personally know any of the teachers named above, please comment and we will update this post so they too can have a personal testament to their hard work.

Baggy Pants + MP3 Player = Gun Scare

2007-02-24T09:18:00.000-06:00

An article was published today in the DNJ that the alleged gun students thought they saw at LaVergne High School this weekend was actually an MP3 player tucked in a student's pants. In his baggy pants. Read about the student's vindication here. I'm glad to read that the school does not now have to search him every day when he arrives, but do believe the school initially did the right thing in sending him home for the day. I know the parents must be terribly upset, but after reading about the incidents at Paducah, Columbine, and the kindergardeners slaughtered in Scotland, you just can't take chances like that with our kids.

Which brings us around to the whole baggy pants thing that we see kids wearing these days. I feel like such an old fuddy-duddy, but I HATE that look. I truly don't get it. It looks beyond ridiculous - it looks stupid, clownish, and is such a poor reflection about the intelligence of the dudes who wear them. Of course, this is my opinion and I'm completely uncool, not down with it, etc. I just want to run up behind the boys (and yes I mean boys because no man, no real man, would do this) and yank their pants down. Instead, I turn away laughing. Yes, laughing. And I sometimes say, "Your pants are falling down" and my daughters hide their faces embarrassed to be seen with me. But they can't explain the look either.

Are the baggy pants a "gang" thing? Is it a rap thing? Is it peer pressure? I guess I'm lucky to have daughters because I'm afraid I'd have to take away the right to choose from my son if I had one and he chose that look.

Blogger Meeting This Saturday

2007-02-23T08:47:00.000-06:00

From our sister site This is Smyrna, TN, we learn that the monthly Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster Meeting is this Saturday, February 24th at Espresso Joe's in Smyrna. The meeting is open to those who blog from this area, those who read blogs, and those who just like coffee and want to meet some interesting people. The host and hostess (Michael and Michelle) give everyone the opportunity to speak about what's on their minds and the recording is later posted as a podcast so listeners from across the world can enjoy the seriousness and laughs.

Speaking of the Smyrna blog, they have invited their elected officials to begin writing columns. I want to extend the same invitation to our LaVergne leaders, as well as to others in our community. If you have something to say about LaVergne, please contact me at ktyson(at)realtracs(dot)com and we can set you up! I'd like to see more interaction on this website with our residents, public officials, city leaders (school principals, business owners, etc.).

I've Not Seen Any

2007-02-23T08:36:00.000-06:00

I keep hearing about gang activity in LaVergne (especially the Lake Forest area and at the high school), but I haven't seen any. My daughter attends LHS and she hasn't seen any. Are we just living with our heads in the sand? Are we that ignorant about what to watch for? Here's an article in today's DNJ about it (again!).

Library Email Notification

2007-02-22T22:16:00.000-06:00

I read in today's Daily News Journal that the Linebaugh Library will begin sending email notifications when a book someone has reserved becomes available. My wish is that the outstanding LaVergne Library folks set one of these up for schmucks like me who always have overdue books... just a friendly reminder that your book is due this week (or last week).

Here's the article.

LHS Situation

2007-02-22T07:22:00.000-06:00

LaVergne High School students experienced a lock-down yesterday morning when a handful of classmates reported that they had sighted another student with a gun. With a daughter at that school, I asked what happened. She told me the same thing that has been reported in the news, then handed me a letter from school officials explaining the same thing.

No gun was found on the student nor in his locker, and the school assures everyone that he and his locker will be searched daily until the end of the school year. If I were the student, I may be upset but as a parent I hope he understands that the safety of the entire school population must be paramount. I also wonder if the student is already at-risk for the school to announce that he will be searched daily.

I want to give "Well Done!" recognition to the school for quickly reacting to the potential situation, then clearly communicating to parents what had happened.

How-To for La Vergne Retail

2007-02-18T08:04:00.000-06:00

The question has been asked a number of times in the comments section of this blog: What can La Vergne do to get more retail? And city P.R. director Angie Mayes has answered it in the comments section. But it deserves it's own post, so here is Angie's reply to how can LaVergne get more retail:

It takes relationships which are built over a number of years through organizations such as the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). Smyrna didn't get built in a day. Mayor Bob Spivey was out plugging Smyrna long (years) before the first chain came to town. We in La Vergne have the people 65,000+ in a 5-mile radius (one of the rings the retailers look at) as well as a household income of more than $55,000 (which -- at last count -- was higher than Smyrna's). Our Economic Development Council is working on getting retail to town (and not just chinese or mexican restaurants -- we have a full sitdown restaurant, bar opening next to Kum Sung in Madison Square Blvd in the Spring). The Mayor (Ronnie Erwin) and Vice Mayor and Economic Development Chairman (Jerry Gann) will both be meeting with the retail movers and shakers at the Spring ICSC conference in May. If you have any more questions, please call Mr. Gann at 566-5517. He'll be glad to explain it to you.

La Vergne Shunned

2007-02-16T18:15:00.000-06:00

I've heard that Smyrna is getting a newspaper and was happily supportive of the idea UNTIL I heard more today. The Smyrna Courier should debut on March 7th and is the product of the Tennessean / Daily News Journal publishers. It is not the Smyrna/La Vergne Courier. As such, it will not be distributed to us unless you have children zoned for Smyrna schools, according to my source. So if you live on the side of LaVergne where your child may attend Cedar Grove or Rock Springs Middle, congratulations. You'll get the paper. But the rest of us are not considered important enough receive a complimentary copy. Why? Because Smyrna has more retail.

I know that LaVergne has had to listen to crap for a LONG time about our lack of retail, but our elected officials are working feverishly to bring it here. And we are seeing progress! PLUS, we do have some outstanding industry here - Ingram, Bridgestone Firestone, etc. (just drive up Waldron Road aka Parthenon). Our population has passed 20,000 people but we don't deserve the newspaper.

My question to those who made the decision to not distribute the newspaper to LaVergne... Do you think we are not newsworthy? Do you think we don't have the financial acumen or muscle to object to this exclusion? If you are a concerned LaVergne resident that we are left out in the cold, please contact fellow LaVergne-dweller Gary Frazier (an editor at the Tennessean) at 278-5155 or 278-6397.

Oh. One more thing. The little hometown I'm from has a population of about 2,000. Even THAT has a weekly newspaper. Why do the decision-makers at the Tennessean/DNJ believe that a community with a population of about 23,000 be unable to support one? Maybe we should start our own and give some competition to their advertising dollars. Who's in?

Police Academy and More

2007-02-16T09:26:00.000-06:00

Some interesting activities are coming up in LaVergne and the city is looking for people to be a part of them! Don't forget about the Storm Spotter class. ~~The city offices are closed on Monday for President's Day~~ (MY BAD - they were closed for MLKing day), but you can take in some scrapbooking training:

Scrapbooking with Mellie
Monday, February 19th, 6:00 - 7:30pm
Register by calling 793-7303 ext. 102

Also, This looks like it could be really interesting.

FROM THE CITY: We at the La Vergne Police Department feel good citizen-police interactions and cooperation are necessary for an exceptional quality of life in our community. The way to achieve this goal is through an exchange of ideas and education.

The Citizen Police Academy (CPA) at the La Vergne Police Department is an excellent way to achieve this end. Across the country, this idea has been met with enthusiasm. Our CPA, which takes place 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. each Tuesday for ten weeks, from February 27, 2007 through May 1, 2007.

Attendance is important for your success in the class. There is no cost for the class. Qualifications for CPA attendees are: (1) minimum age of 18, (2) live or work in the city of La Vergne, (3) no prior felony arrests, and (4) no serious misdemeanor arrests. A criminal background investigation is performed concerning all applications to assure that all
participants have not been convicted of any felony or serious misdemeanor crimes.

The CPA will include detailed information on such topics as uniformed patrol, special operations, criminal investigations, youth and criminal law, moot court, and many other interesting areas.

If you feel that you would like to be a part of this cooperative effort between the police department and community, please call 793-7744 or stop by the La Vergne Police Department anytime and pick up an application. Any questions, or application request, can also be addressed to Sergeant Carl McMillen at 287-8616 or e-mail at cmcmillen@lavergne.org

Topics to be Covered

History of Law Enforcement and the LaVergne Police Department
Police Administration
Police Records
Domestic Violence
Officer Safety
Criminal Investigation
Special Operations Group (Department Tactical Team)
K-9 Unit
Traffic Enforcement
Lethal and Less-Than-Lethal Force
Narcotics Enforcement Division
Juvenile Offenders
Court System
Traffic Accident Investigation
Dusting & Lifting Fingerprints
Building Search Procedures
DUI Enforcement
Gangs
Tennessee Sex Offender Registry
Tennessee Convicted Felon Registry
Home Security Survey

Finally, I want to say thanks again to Angie Cullen, the dispatcher who is credited with getting the water turned on for the newly relocated family with an infant. Go to an earlier post to read about it.

Snowy Morning

2007-02-15T14:30:00.000-06:00

School wasn't canceled altogether, but it was delayed. Why? This is why.

Looking down Meadowlark Lane.

Looking up Sunward Drive! It was surprising to me that school was only delayed, although the roads ARE perfectly clear now... at least where I live.

Softball Signups

2007-02-14T09:55:00.000-06:00

From the city: The La Vergne Parks and Recreation Department will host an organizational meeting for those interested in playing softball at 1:00 p.m. this Sunday (Feb. 18) at the Multi-Purpose Building, behind City Hall (by the ball fields). Anyone interested in playing is invited to attend. For more information, call Michael Tisdell at 793-3224.

Cyber Clock

2007-02-12T12:18:00.000-06:00

Check out this waaaaay cool Internet Clock. Just for fun!

Cyber Clock

La Vergne, Tennessee

Roll Up the Sidewalks and Say Good Bye

Photo Scavenger Hunt

Prayers Needed

Load of News from the City

JL Kirk v. Coble Roundup

Brandon Home

School Daze...

Farmers Market Anyone?

Escapee Found in La Vergne

Sales Tax Holiday

Terms of Use

No More Anonymous

Open House this Sunday

BUMP Don't Forget Rabies Vaccine

When You Try to Control Free Speech

La wsuits Come and Go

Vendors Wanted for Upcoming Event

Blood Drive at High School

Vaccination Reminder

Happy Easter

First Meeting Scheduled...

Photo Scavenger Hunt

Lots of Free Food and Prizes!

FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS available now to buy home

Rabies Clinic Offered

Little Bunny Foo Foo

Kids Learn to Fight (off attackers)

FEMA Changes Flood Map

La Vergne Cleaners Robbed

Where are all the Chinese?

La Vergne Housing Numbers

Parts for a Lawnmower

Live Music, Good Fun!

We're Upgrading Our Boat to a Ship

Definition of a "Boat Load"

Easter Egg Hunt Reminder

New Maps of La Vergne Available

Something Gruesome This Way Comes

Job Fair In Nashville on Thursday, March 29th

Help Wanted in La Vergne

Attention Commenter John Buntville

Golf Tourney Coming

How to Pressure Wash Your Home

Don't Forget the Scavenger Hunt

Protecting Cemeteries from Growth

How to Stop Hunting Next to Houses

La Vergne Veterinary Clinic

Recommended Reading

In Which We Respond to Comments

LaVergne's Own Photo Scavenger Hunt

A Word About Codes Violations...

Raising revenue for the City of La Vergne

Interesting Story About The Name of Our City!

LA VERGNE PAL HOSTING GOLF TOURNEY

ROAD CLOSURE ALERT

You Can Help the Walker Family

Congratulations, Dusty Fields

Are You a Player?

Tax Help Available

Skate Park Meeting

The Frist Center and Other Things That Are Fun

Next Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting Date Set

No New Post Office ... Yet

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Hop Hop Hopping to LaVergne

LHS "Scanned" for Drugs

Police Chief Resigns

Banned in China

Come See Us Saturday - Middle Tennessee Blogger and Podcaster's Group Meeting

Update on Burn Permits

Lock Down Drill at LMS

Billy Cooper Gets Guide Dog, Thanks to La Vergne Clubs

Family Needs Help After Fire

Cemetary Holds Clean Up Day

View From The Lake, Lake Forest That Is

Fire in Farmingdale Subdivision

Keep Brandon in Your Prayers

Lots of Info at "Living in LaVergne"

Smyrna A.M., not for LaVergne