City officials from Bartlett Tennessee visited today to learn about our school system as they evaluate the creation of their own.
They were interested in the organizational structure, finance, operations, and academic programs. They basically were trying to understand it all.
Dr. Lilly and his staff did a fine job presenting relevant information to our visitors. Bristol was one of three stops they made to better understand the dynamics of operating schools - they also visited Johnson City and Kingsport while in the area.
A major question will be placed before their voters in a few months to establish a separate city school system apart from Shelby County.
Way back in 1888 a decision was made to create a separate city school system here in Bristol.
Over a century later we know what a good decision was made.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
Rules and regs
Rules and regulations are good, right?
Without rules and regulations there would be no law and order.
Without law and order there would be no social order.
Without social order there would be chaos and dysfunction.
With chaos and dysfunction there would be a loss of natural and legal rights.
Yes, a few rules and regulations are a good thing to have. Even those we don't particularly like.
Without rules and regulations there would be no law and order.
Without law and order there would be no social order.
Without social order there would be chaos and dysfunction.
With chaos and dysfunction there would be a loss of natural and legal rights.
Yes, a few rules and regulations are a good thing to have. Even those we don't particularly like.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Year of the dragon
The year of the dragon - It almost slipped by me.
Meaningful? Sure - if you want it to be.
A dragon signifies wisdom in many cultures. There's never enough of that.
And it's considered the luckiest year in the Chinese Zodiac. Luck is important too.
So during 2012 use all of the wisdom you possess - and welcome the luck that finds its way to you - to make it the most successful year ever.
Meaningful? Sure - if you want it to be.
A dragon signifies wisdom in many cultures. There's never enough of that.
And it's considered the luckiest year in the Chinese Zodiac. Luck is important too.
So during 2012 use all of the wisdom you possess - and welcome the luck that finds its way to you - to make it the most successful year ever.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
BPL
The Bristol Public Library hosted a luncheon for the Bristol Tennessee and Bristol Virginia city councils on Wednesday to update them on the operation of the library this past year.
Our public library is a great community asset and is widely used. Last year 319,000 patrons entered the library with 383,000 items checked out.
The summer reading program was a big hit with 3,000 children and 1,000 adults involved in the six week program. The literacy academy is also based at the library with over 800 people receiving assistance with their GED preparation and another 1,000 taking computer classes.
The Bristol Public Library - another great reason to live in Bristol.
Our public library is a great community asset and is widely used. Last year 319,000 patrons entered the library with 383,000 items checked out.
The summer reading program was a big hit with 3,000 children and 1,000 adults involved in the six week program. The literacy academy is also based at the library with over 800 people receiving assistance with their GED preparation and another 1,000 taking computer classes.
The Bristol Public Library - another great reason to live in Bristol.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Swamp
Had an interesting conversation today about alligators in the monthly employee breakfast meeting. You just never know what will come up.
I couldn't contribute much since I know so little about alligators except that which is commonly known - where they live, what color they are, big teeth (or is it a big mouth or big snout?), etcetera.
The nice thing about the conversation was that many of us were learning about something we knew not much about - and from a teacher who wasn't on the agenda to teach this morning.
The moral of this story is that each of us has a knowledge base to educate others - never miss a teachable moment when the opportunity arises.
No matter how seemingly inconsequential, the information imparted may come in handy sometime or somewhere to someone.
Now remember that the next time you're in a Florida swamp.
I couldn't contribute much since I know so little about alligators except that which is commonly known - where they live, what color they are, big teeth (or is it a big mouth or big snout?), etcetera.
The nice thing about the conversation was that many of us were learning about something we knew not much about - and from a teacher who wasn't on the agenda to teach this morning.
The moral of this story is that each of us has a knowledge base to educate others - never miss a teachable moment when the opportunity arises.
No matter how seemingly inconsequential, the information imparted may come in handy sometime or somewhere to someone.
Now remember that the next time you're in a Florida swamp.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Options
I was thinking the other day about options - no, not the financial or legal type - but rather those that give you a choice, or better yet - choices.
Options are a really good thing to have. They don't come magically or by happenstance - most the time you have to work to get them in place. And they're as important to a person as they are to an institution like city government.
But once in place they give you opportunities to advance your target when the planned route requires a major detour; and even a viable outcome with a destination change.
The only thing worse than have one choice is having none.............. or is it?
After all, isn't one choice really no option at all?
Options are a really good thing to have. They don't come magically or by happenstance - most the time you have to work to get them in place. And they're as important to a person as they are to an institution like city government.
But once in place they give you opportunities to advance your target when the planned route requires a major detour; and even a viable outcome with a destination change.
The only thing worse than have one choice is having none.............. or is it?
After all, isn't one choice really no option at all?
Friday, January 20, 2012
Municipal Academy
The 4th annual Citizens Municipal Academy commenced last night with a class on "The Big Picture."
This 2 1/2 hour opening session is designed to provide a broad overview of city government including a quick history lesson; key demographic information; a discussion on the form of government and organizational structure; a discussion on budget and finance; and a review of strategic initiatives and goals.
Future classes in successive weeks will include presentations on recreation and leisure services; fire and emergency medical services; community and economic development; public works and utilities; and police and emergency communications.
The academy graduates will be treated to a reception and will be presented at the March 6th Council meeting when they will be publicly recognized for their participation.
The CMA is a great way to better acquaint our residents about the operation of city government in an intimate setting and is always an enjoyable activity for the participants and presenters alike - I give it a thumbs up.
This 2 1/2 hour opening session is designed to provide a broad overview of city government including a quick history lesson; key demographic information; a discussion on the form of government and organizational structure; a discussion on budget and finance; and a review of strategic initiatives and goals.
Future classes in successive weeks will include presentations on recreation and leisure services; fire and emergency medical services; community and economic development; public works and utilities; and police and emergency communications.
The academy graduates will be treated to a reception and will be presented at the March 6th Council meeting when they will be publicly recognized for their participation.
The CMA is a great way to better acquaint our residents about the operation of city government in an intimate setting and is always an enjoyable activity for the participants and presenters alike - I give it a thumbs up.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Journey
A breakfast meeting was held today that brought all 14 strategic partners into a room at one time to share the symbiotic relationships and multiple objectives upon which the city's new strategic economic development plan is formed.
Insightful comments by blue ribbon steering committee members Nell King Bieger and David Wagner were made discussing the work of the steering committee; followed by thoughtful commentary on the importance of the endeavor by three of our strategic partners: Bristol Chamber exec Lisa Meadows; Bristol Regional Medical Center CEO Bart Hove; and King College President Greg Jordan.
Now with the official launch of the plan - the real work begins.
Given the resolve of our partners that was very evident in the room this morning - coupled with the work that is already ongoing to advance the plan - our journey of 1,000 miles has already taken its first step.
And each of our partners is committed to take the next, and the next, and the next.
Now with the official launch of the plan - the real work begins.
Given the resolve of our partners that was very evident in the room this morning - coupled with the work that is already ongoing to advance the plan - our journey of 1,000 miles has already taken its first step.
And each of our partners is committed to take the next, and the next, and the next.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Sun power
Last night the City Council authorized a 200-KW solar farm to be located on a inactive section of the demolition landfill.
This action culminates an arduous journey started several months ago to take advantage of an incentive program offered by the Tennessee Valley Authority to encourage the generation of renewable electrical power - in this case the power of the sun.
The placement of this collection and generation facility at the landfill is good for the environment and a great use for this barren ground.
The city also receives a lease payment for the use of city property and a credit on its power bill for the power sold back to the grid - which is good for the city too.
This action culminates an arduous journey started several months ago to take advantage of an incentive program offered by the Tennessee Valley Authority to encourage the generation of renewable electrical power - in this case the power of the sun.
The placement of this collection and generation facility at the landfill is good for the environment and a great use for this barren ground.
The city also receives a lease payment for the use of city property and a credit on its power bill for the power sold back to the grid - which is good for the city too.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Call for nominations
Bristol Tennessee Mayor David Shumaker and Bristol Virginia Mayor Ed Harlow jointly made a call for nominations today for the 2012 Mayors' Award of Distinction program.
This program, which is now entering its fifth year, recognizes an individual or organization that has demonstrated a single outstanding act or contribution - or a series of acts or contributions - which have made a significant and lasting contribution to the Bristol Tennessee/Virginia community in the arts, industry, commerce, entertainment, education or to the welfare of others; or to a person that has achieved regional, national, or international recognition.
Nominations for 2012 awards will be accepted until March 1 at which time a citizen panel will convene to review applications and select this year's award recipient(s). An award ceremony and reception will follow at the end of April.
This program is a great way to identify and thank those "unsung heroes" that do so much for the community without fanfare or publicity, and often behind the scenes.
Our community is the beneficiary of the unselfish work of these individuals and organizations that add to the richness and sense of community that is Bristol.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Fireworks
I don't know about you - but for me - rigorous exercise gets the brain running in high gear.
Had a nice run today and it was like fireworks of thoughts and ideas exploding in my mind.
With a major public presentation coming up this week the time was invaluable in fine-tuning my thoughts for the presentation to be made.
Yes, exercise is a really good thing - try to get yours everyday.
Had a nice run today and it was like fireworks of thoughts and ideas exploding in my mind.
With a major public presentation coming up this week the time was invaluable in fine-tuning my thoughts for the presentation to be made.
Yes, exercise is a really good thing - try to get yours everyday.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Chamber
The annual awards luncheon of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce took place today under lightly snowing skies.
A sold-out house celebrated another successful year under the leadership of outgoing Chairman Scott Emerine.
A Lifetime Achievement Award was given to John Tickle and special recognitions were made to Joy Behymer, Lori Cogan, Sarah Gillespie, and Marjorie Tester for their work on behalf of the chamber and visitors bureau this year.
President and CEO Lisa Meadows and the chamber team do an outstanding job in representing the business community and in advancing the interests of Bristol in so many ways - economically, politically, and environmentally - on both sides of the state line.
The Chamber is a high-performance organization with a top-notch group of volunteer members and a professional staff - and our community is better off because of that.
Another good reason to live in Bristol.
A sold-out house celebrated another successful year under the leadership of outgoing Chairman Scott Emerine.
A Lifetime Achievement Award was given to John Tickle and special recognitions were made to Joy Behymer, Lori Cogan, Sarah Gillespie, and Marjorie Tester for their work on behalf of the chamber and visitors bureau this year.
President and CEO Lisa Meadows and the chamber team do an outstanding job in representing the business community and in advancing the interests of Bristol in so many ways - economically, politically, and environmentally - on both sides of the state line.
The Chamber is a high-performance organization with a top-notch group of volunteer members and a professional staff - and our community is better off because of that.
Another good reason to live in Bristol.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Comments
The City's website - www.bristoltn.org - has a convenient tab at the top of the home page to facilitate contact with us by telephone, mail, or electronic mail.
Two electronically-sent comments came in this past day complimenting the Police Department for assistance rendered on two separate incidents - a family stranded on Christmas Eve as the result of a vehicle accident and an 18-wheeler that ended-up lost in a residential neighborhood and unable to find its way back safely to the highway.
In the first instance, the commenter remarked "Police are under a lot of pressure right now to do the right thing, respecting the public and ensuring our safety. It was the actions of your officers on Christmas Eve that reminded me just how vital they are to any community, and you should be extremely proud of the force looking out for you."
In the second instance, the trucker shared "I just got deeper and deeper in trouble until I was in a serious situation that I was trying to avoid. I had to call for help. The officers came to my rescue and got me to the highway which was where I needed to be. The only thing that got torn up was my nerves. I don't know the names of the three officers who came to help me but please advise your police department that I thank them from the bottom of my heart."
It's always refreshing to hear these stories and to know that our employees are working hard every day to serve our residents and visitors. Thank you Chief Blaine Wade - and the men and women of the Bristol Police Department - for the job you do so well.
Two electronically-sent comments came in this past day complimenting the Police Department for assistance rendered on two separate incidents - a family stranded on Christmas Eve as the result of a vehicle accident and an 18-wheeler that ended-up lost in a residential neighborhood and unable to find its way back safely to the highway.
In the first instance, the commenter remarked "Police are under a lot of pressure right now to do the right thing, respecting the public and ensuring our safety. It was the actions of your officers on Christmas Eve that reminded me just how vital they are to any community, and you should be extremely proud of the force looking out for you."
In the second instance, the trucker shared "I just got deeper and deeper in trouble until I was in a serious situation that I was trying to avoid. I had to call for help. The officers came to my rescue and got me to the highway which was where I needed to be. The only thing that got torn up was my nerves. I don't know the names of the three officers who came to help me but please advise your police department that I thank them from the bottom of my heart."
It's always refreshing to hear these stories and to know that our employees are working hard every day to serve our residents and visitors. Thank you Chief Blaine Wade - and the men and women of the Bristol Police Department - for the job you do so well.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Ahoy matey
Have you ever stopped to think how many decisions you make in the course of a work day?
Some decisions are simple and with limited significance - which letter gets written first and which phone call gets returned next. Other decisions can be complex requiring careful thought and consideration. And then there's the third category - the vast decision-land in between.
The challenge is in distinguishing between the three - a skill which is harder than it may seem. After all the tip of the iceberg seemed harmless enough to the RMS Titanic crew.
So be thoughtful in all your decisions - but don't dwell too long.
Some decisions are simple and with limited significance - which letter gets written first and which phone call gets returned next. Other decisions can be complex requiring careful thought and consideration. And then there's the third category - the vast decision-land in between.
The challenge is in distinguishing between the three - a skill which is harder than it may seem. After all the tip of the iceberg seemed harmless enough to the RMS Titanic crew.
So be thoughtful in all your decisions - but don't dwell too long.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Stone Castle
One of the city's icons is the Stone Castle at Tennessee High School - a stadium built by the Works Progress Administration as part of President Franklin Roosevelt's "New Deal."
The Castle opened its doors in October 1936 - 75 years ago and counting.
An ambitious plan is underway by the Stone Castle Rejuvenation Committee to undertake a major fundraiser leading to the upgrade and enhancement of this venerable facility.
The proposed improvements are many and include:
Improved handicapped accessibility
Renovation and addition of restrooms
Upgrade of existing seating
The addition of end zone seating
New concession and souvenir stands
Construction of a new home team dressing room and training room
Improvement of the visitor dressing room
Upgraded lighting for energy efficiency
Refurbishment of the entrances and plaza
Installation of a synthetic playing surface
The City Council previously committed to fund 25% of the cost of a synthetic playing surface provided the remaining 75% was raised by the school system and supporters.
The school system and supporters are now taking the project to a much higher level - a multimillion dollar level.
For this we wish them great success.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Rx
56 degrees Farenheit / 13.3 Celsius on January 7 - not bad. Actually great (unless you run one of the ski resorts about an hours drive away).
So what do you do on a beautiful January day in Bristol - head over to Steele Creek Park, of course.
Today the Lake Ridge Trail came into play - 2.2 miles up and down and around the knobs from the Rooster Front trailhead. Then a hike across the bridge past the Nature Center, Lodge, and playground to the Wedding Chapel bridge. Then another 1.9 miles along the flat Lakeside Trail back to Rooster Front.
All told - about 5 miles.
Passed several other folks doing the same thing - enjoying a great park on a mild January day.
The ski slopes will do just fine this winter I'm sure - but for now, the 50's F / 13's C are just what the doctor ordered.
So what do you do on a beautiful January day in Bristol - head over to Steele Creek Park, of course.
Today the Lake Ridge Trail came into play - 2.2 miles up and down and around the knobs from the Rooster Front trailhead. Then a hike across the bridge past the Nature Center, Lodge, and playground to the Wedding Chapel bridge. Then another 1.9 miles along the flat Lakeside Trail back to Rooster Front.
All told - about 5 miles.
Passed several other folks doing the same thing - enjoying a great park on a mild January day.
The ski slopes will do just fine this winter I'm sure - but for now, the 50's F / 13's C are just what the doctor ordered.
Friday, January 6, 2012
Legislative agenda
Each year a legislative policy agenda is developed by the cities of Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City to provide a unified position regarding key legislative initiatives affecting the Tri-Cities.
A luncheon was held with area legislators today to formally present the 2012 legislative policy which includes nineteen (19) policy objectives grouped into six subject areas: (1) Education, (2) Public Safety, (3) Economic Development, (4) Unfunded Mandates and Local Control, (5) Transportation, and (6) Local Revenue.
Now the hard work comes for our legislative delegation - to advance the various initiatives identified and, as importantly, to stave off any bad bills that will be introduced in Nashville this session.
We are truly fortunate to have such a qualified and capable group of state senators and representatives serving our communities in this session of the 107th General Assembly.
Thanks in advance to each of you for your outstanding service to our communities.
Senators
Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey (District 2)
Rusty Crowe (District 3)
Mike Faulk (District 4)
Representatives
Jon Lundberg (District 1)
Tony Shipley (District 2)
Scotty Campbell (District 3)
Kent Williams (District 4)
David Hawk (District 5)
Dale Ford (District 6)
Matthew Hill (District 7)
Michael Harrison (District 9)
A luncheon was held with area legislators today to formally present the 2012 legislative policy which includes nineteen (19) policy objectives grouped into six subject areas: (1) Education, (2) Public Safety, (3) Economic Development, (4) Unfunded Mandates and Local Control, (5) Transportation, and (6) Local Revenue.
Now the hard work comes for our legislative delegation - to advance the various initiatives identified and, as importantly, to stave off any bad bills that will be introduced in Nashville this session.
We are truly fortunate to have such a qualified and capable group of state senators and representatives serving our communities in this session of the 107th General Assembly.
Thanks in advance to each of you for your outstanding service to our communities.
Senators
Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey (District 2)
Rusty Crowe (District 3)
Mike Faulk (District 4)
Representatives
Jon Lundberg (District 1)
Tony Shipley (District 2)
Scotty Campbell (District 3)
Kent Williams (District 4)
David Hawk (District 5)
Dale Ford (District 6)
Matthew Hill (District 7)
Michael Harrison (District 9)
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Meeting
Last night was the first Tuesday of the month so the regular monthly meeting of the City Council took place at its normal time and place - 7:00 p.m. at the Slater Center.
The meeting lasted about 90 minutes or so - just about right for an agenda including 13 action items, three appointments to boards and commission, two public hearings, and two presentations. Plus a few other miscellaneous items to address and approve.
The Council rezoned property; updated two chapters of the code of ordinances on building regulations and sidewalk cafe permits; awarded several bids and purchases; and accepted a grant in support of the farmers market. The State Street Farmers Market is always of great interest to City Council and they are always appreciative of state funds made available to promote the market in the coming year.
The citizens attending the meeting braved a cold night - the first real cold weather of the winter by my recollection. Probably seemed colder than it was since it was the first of the year - but there is more to come.
I guess we'd better get use to it for awhile as we do enjoy four seasons in Bristol - but thankfully the winter gives way to spring without much of a fight.
Another good reason to live in Bristol.
The meeting lasted about 90 minutes or so - just about right for an agenda including 13 action items, three appointments to boards and commission, two public hearings, and two presentations. Plus a few other miscellaneous items to address and approve.
The Council rezoned property; updated two chapters of the code of ordinances on building regulations and sidewalk cafe permits; awarded several bids and purchases; and accepted a grant in support of the farmers market. The State Street Farmers Market is always of great interest to City Council and they are always appreciative of state funds made available to promote the market in the coming year.
The citizens attending the meeting braved a cold night - the first real cold weather of the winter by my recollection. Probably seemed colder than it was since it was the first of the year - but there is more to come.
I guess we'd better get use to it for awhile as we do enjoy four seasons in Bristol - but thankfully the winter gives way to spring without much of a fight.
Another good reason to live in Bristol.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Sync
New year's day.
Seems like we just did this - was it really one year ago? Time passes so quickly.
2012 is a leap year - so this year will seem much longer. That extra day will come in handy - a bonus day not to squander away meaninglessly - so plan early and use it wisely.
Another way to stay in sync with the solar calendar is to add 4 hours every year - but that would give payroll personnel fits I'm sure.
So what to do with that extra Wednesday in February? I'll be thinking about that - and you do the same.
Seems like we just did this - was it really one year ago? Time passes so quickly.
2012 is a leap year - so this year will seem much longer. That extra day will come in handy - a bonus day not to squander away meaninglessly - so plan early and use it wisely.
Another way to stay in sync with the solar calendar is to add 4 hours every year - but that would give payroll personnel fits I'm sure.
So what to do with that extra Wednesday in February? I'll be thinking about that - and you do the same.
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