Carefree

Yesterday was the final day of the 2012 school year for Bristol students - congratulations to the Class of 2012.

Driving by Tennessee High at dismissal time, the students I saw appeared relaxed and carefree.  I suspect the instructional staff felt the same way.

What a nice feeling that is.

Red

The second annual Emergency Services day took place in Anderson Park Saturday.

Our thanks go out to the first responders that keep our community and region safe.  Many were kind enough to spend the day and showcase their equipment.  Hope you didn't miss it.

And for those of you of slight build - stop by Anderson Park any time. We've always got a fire truck in service and ready for use.

Discretion

A friendly reminder:  Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should.

Rigby

Got Rigby?

Vance Middle School did - until now.

Rigby Kind served as principal of Vance Middle School for the past 17 years.  He shepherded thousands of students through the doors during his tenure.  He is moving on to a new Central Office position.

With smiling face and a genuine kindness, Rigby embodies the best of our school system.

The 8th grade class showed their principal its love and respect with a rocking rendition of Time of My Life from Dirty Dancing fame at Honors Day.

Their message was clear:  They had the time of my life - and they never felt that way before.

Thanks Rigby.

Class of 2016

A gymnasium full of 7th and 8th graders - surrounded by proud parents, grandparents and friends -spent the morning at the George W. Vance Middle School Honors Day.

Numerous students were recognized by Principal Rigby Kind and Assistant Principal Seymour Ray for scholarship, achievement, and leadership during the 90 minute ceremony.  The success of the student body was impressive.

BETA Club President Chad Smith provided the parting words for the 291 graduating 8th graders following a lifting musical presentation by the Honor Choir.

Vance Middle School Honor Choir

And despite the best efforts of Principal Kind to stay on script, there was a a special musical presentation at the end - but more on that next time.

Service

Officer Justin Bush of Tennessee and Officer Jeanette Loudy of Virginia were recognized today as Bristol Police Officers of the Year by the Optimist Club of Bristol TN/VA.

The awards were given for outstanding and dedicated service to the citizens of Bristol.

Congratulations Jeanette and Justin - and thank you for your service to the community.

Pulse

Every city has a pulse, an undeniable cadence and rhythm that is beating constantly, and constantly there.  No two are alike

The pulse is the familiar, the steady, the "oh yeah, that's Bristol" (or insert your own city).  It's in the background - it doesn't make the news.  It doesn't spike wildly due to the latest whatever.  No, it is much too grounded for that.

It's as reliable as the sun rising each morning - and just as important.