BrentWord

2011-10-17T12:53:00.002-05:00

Catching up on columns, Cain and a cross-dressing correction

When we first started Brentwood Home Page, I wrote a column a day. And it about killed me.
“Susan, there’s not a columnist in the country that writes a column every day,” husband Larry said.
Smart man. So I vowed to write three columns a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. And for about a year, I did a pretty good job of hitting my goal.
In recent months, as BHP has grown along with the demands of running a business, it’s been more hit or miss. Some weeks there’s one, sometimes there are three.
I’m not happy about that. To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-08-24T09:43:00.001-05:00

'Leadership' answers and a silver anniversary celebration...

Want to know what Leadership Brentwood class member was the target of a murder attempt, and what one let Reese Witherspoon have her role in “Man in the Moon”? I’m here to tell you.

If you missed last week’s column that shared “interesting facts” about LBW’s Class of 2012, you can click here for background. If you want to learn more about the class members below as well as the rest of the class, click here.

Who was offered a full scholarship to the Pittsburgh Institute of Art? Matt Boyd, who also has run the Chicago Marathon twice, in 2002 and 2004.

Who once headlined a concert at the Kennedy Center? Educator Deb Enright.

Who was once a target of an attempted murder? ...

To read the rest of the column click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-08-18T08:49:00.004-05:00

Target of attempted murder now in Leadership Brentwood, and more

My birthday isn’t for another month, but I felt old, really old, last week at the Class of 2012 Leadership Brentwood kickoff reception. If it wasn’t for the wine and beer bar, I would have sworn I had walked into a Youth Leadership Brentwood event.

I stood with my mouth open as class member after class member was introduced. Yes, a handful may have hit 40, even 50, but most looked like they were 17. What’s more, their resumes left me feeling like I had a great big L on my forehead – and I don’t think I was the only one who felt that way.

Read the bios for yourself in our Business section. But today I’d like to share “the rest of the story.” Each year the LBW application asks candidates to list an “interesting fact” about themselves. If I didn’t know a lot of these people myself, I would believe most of the facts were made up. But liars shouldn’t be leaders, right?

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-08-18T08:31:00.004-05:00

Jingle Bell lives on in pictures; snake sighting
A Brentwood celebrity passed away recently just shy of her 17th birthday. Nearly blind and deaf, she “had few teeth left” and severe arthritis. “But she never lost her sweetness and love of affection,” wrote her mom, Brentwood Realtor Cheryl Ballesteros.

For years, Jingle Bell adorned the marketing postcards Cheryl sent to her clients almost every month. I’m pretty sure that dot had more outfits than the biggest clothes horse in Brentwood. And every time one arrived in the mail, I couldn’t help but smile.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-08-08T10:10:00.002-05:00

All's 'Fair' in line dancing competition, or is it?

It’s a conspiracy I say.

We all know Williamson County residents who don’t live in Brentwood are jealous of those of us who do. So after the Boot, Scoot and Boogey Line dancing competition that kicked off the Williamson County Fair on Friday was over, I wasn’t surprised to learn that Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson and Franklin Mayor Ken Moore had received the most applause -- which led to a tie for first place.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-08-03T09:59:00.002-05:00

'Limo service' of the blue-light variety quite a ride

So that’s what riding in the back of a police car feels like. Not experienced it yourself? Be grateful.
There’s not much leg room and you can’t open the door. You can’t roll down the window either.
You do have a personal chauffeur that you talk to through a sliding window made from bullet-proof glass between the front and back seats. But there’s no champagne, no surround sound stereo system, no plush carpet. The black seats may have been leather but I wasn’t paying too much attention when I got my lift just after midnight on Monday morning.

So much for an uneventful re-entry into real life after a splendid week on the beach in Hilton Head.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-08-01T09:42:00.001-05:00

On beach reads, Borders and Brentwood's UFO sighting

It’s amazing what a week at the beach can do for the soul. The Leathers – the whole family plus mom-in-law Marge and “daughter” Samantha, our 13-year-old brown golden retriever – had our first real family vacation in almost three years.
Overdue? You can say that again.

The best thing about a beach vacation? Reading, of course. And I’m so happy to report that I didn’t see one Kindle or iPad or other e-reader in the hands of one person lounging on the shores at Sea Pines. At the beach where sand, sweat, suntan lotion and saltwater rule, only a good paperback will do.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-07-25T13:23:00.002-05:00

Brentwood's greatness didn't just happen by chance

Here’s the truth of the matter: We live in one of the best places in the country. I’ve lived in six states from Virginia to California and feel qualified to make that statement.

Brentwood has a public library that I would put up against any city's of its size anywhere, and most larger cities. We have an exceptional parks system.

If you haven’t noticed, we pay property taxes that are far lower than most of our neighbors. Pair that with the state’s lack of an income tax and it’s hard to complain about the taxes you pay.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com.

2011-07-18T11:13:00.001-05:00

You go girl: County commissioner speaks up for library

County Commissioner Arlene Cooke doesn’t get her dander up very often but last Monday, near the end of the county governing board’s six-hour meeting during which it passed a $388 million budget, she couldn’t sit by and let one item go unchallenged.
After hours and hours of discussion and votes and more discussion and more votes, and after a vote to increase the county’s property tax rate for the first time in almost a decade, 4th District Commissioner Kathy Danner – who represents a small part of the city in addition to Cool Springs and the southeast portion of the county, made a request that the county discontinue its support of the Brentwood Library. That support is $71,000 for the 2011-2012 fiscal year budget.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-07-15T14:48:00.002-05:00

And it started out as a week with such promise...

As is too often the case these days, the road was paved with good intentions. But between the news, the business and family matters, BrentWord -- my favorite part of what I do -- has been woefully neglected...

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-07-11T08:47:00.002-05:00

Chow Hound on the prowl for pizza, and maybe a beer

Hungry for pizza? A calzone? Pasta? Don't head to Joey's, he's gone. But Sal's taken his place. But if you want a beer, you'll have to wait until after tonight's Beer Board meeting before tonight's City Commission meeting. And after tonight's meeting, with two rezonings on the agenda, City Commissioners may be looking for a cold beer ... or maybe something a bit stronger after the public hearings are over.

To read the rest of the article click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-07-05T09:35:00.003-05:00

Musings on stereotypes, newspapers and lawsuits

The news last week that the ACLU and The Contributor had filed a lawsuit against the city for violating the freedom of speech left me conflicted. As a member of the press, in an age when real journalism seems under attack from both internal and external forces and when too many abuse the right to freedom of speech as a way to promote their own purposes, I take any real violations personally.
I buy The Contributor whenever I can, whenever I can purchase one safely. It consistently has some good stories and interesting features. As an admitted royal watcher, one of my favorite articles ever concerned Britain’s Prince William and why he is such a supporter of ventures like homeless publications that put people to work and give them hand up instead of a hand out.

To read the rest of the article at Brentwood Home Page click here.

This article also appears in the Tennessean to read it click here.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-06-27T08:51:00.001-05:00

Chow hound report: Restaurants coming and going

Hungry? Chow hounds like myself have much to celebrate in Brentwood these days, but we also have some sad news to report.

Anyone who’s been keeping an eye on the construction has probably noticed that First Watch, the new breakfast and lunch restaurant going in at the Harris Teeter-anchored Pear Tree Village shopping center is coming right along. Original estimates were for an August opening. Promise I’ll check with the powers that be to get the scoop this week.

I haven’t eaten there yet, but I did stop by and pick up a menu at the new Satay Thai Grill located in the Brentwood House shopping center on Franklin Road and can’t wait to go back and give it a try. Its owner will be in front of the city’s Beer Board, read that City Commission, tonight hoping to add to its beverage selection.

All in the name of research, I not only stopped by and bought a treat from Beignets Bakery and Cafe, the new little neighborhood spot located near the corner of Franklin Road and Moores Lane. I didn’t get one of its namesake beignets, one of the deep-fried pastries rolled in powdered sugar that many travel all the way to New Orleans to enjoy. Mixed online reviews, however, make me glad I tried a chocolate croissant instead. Delicious.

And then there’s Joey’s House of Pizza. The Italian restaurant that has been a Maryland Farms’ mainstay for almost a decade is moving to a new location on Elm Hill Pike in Nashville. Friends and fans are devastated but owner Joey Macca and his family who run the restaurant assure me it’s going to be a good move for them. He also says that those who need their Italian fix probably won’t have to wait too long before the space smells of oregano again. Details will be forthcoming as soon as I can confirm them.

Continuing our restaurant theme, McAllister’s Deli in Brentwood Place wants everyone’s help so that Brentwood can be named Tea Town USA. Turns out there’s a corporate contest going on that will end with a nonprofit of the winning store’s choice receiving up to $7,500. The Brentwood store is competing for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation. The Greater Nashville Race for the Cure returns to Maryland Farms on Oct. 29.

It’s easy to cast a vote for Brentwood. Just visit McAllister’s home page, click the link, and type in Brentwood, Tenn. As of Sunday, it only had 105 votes – far below leading Joplin, Mo. With 7959 (which honestly, deserves all the help it can get after its recent tornado.), Longview, Texas is in second with 5032 votes, and Charlotte, N.C. with 2197.

We have until July 28, which has been declared Free Tea Day. Let’s hope turnout doesn’t rival that of the last city commission election – when few voters cast votes than either Joplin or Longview have received for their iced tea.

And finally, on a non-food related topic, I hope we see a huge crowd Tuesday night at the Brentwood Library for our third BHP Night at the Library. I first became aware of Dr. Jim Wellborn when he spoke to the Parents of Teens Sunday School class I belonged to several years ago. I instantly became a fan. He’s an engaging and open speaker who “tells it like it is” when it comes to today’s teens, and more importantly, different parenting styles.

If you have teens or preteens, consider joining us. It starts at 7 and yes, refreshments will be served.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-06-21T13:13:00.001-05:00

No barn yet but we still have six months until Christmas
Did you see the beautiful landscape of the Turner farm last week when the fresh hay bales dotted the fields surrounding the lonesome silo? It reminded me that I hadn’t checked in with George Crosthwait, the farm’s manager, to see if there is any new news about replacing the landmark barn that had to be torn down in March. A month earlier, the iconic structure had sustained too much damage to repair during a wind storm.

George tells me while nothing has been decided yet, he has met with the city’s planning staff who assured him they would do whatever they could to fast-track a plan if it meets all of the city’s regulations.

Whatever is ultimately decided by Cal Turner Jr. and his son, Cal III, George said the goal will be to design something that will remain there for the long haul. He believes whatever’s built will also serve some purpose beyond being a piece of eye candy to those who love to gaze at the farm while traveling down Franklin Road or as a base for the beautiful, hand-painted Christmas mural that Mr. Turner commissioned years ago to display during the holiday season.

That’s the scoop as I know it today. But George assures me we’ll be the first to know when a decision is made. So stay tuned. Let’s just hope something’s decided and built before Advent season comes around again.

Mission work right here at home
I had a surprise call from an old friend Monday night. She and her daughter are staying in a Maryland Farms hotel this week with 65 youth and chaperones from their church in Richmond, Va. It’s their home base for their summer mission trip. Yes, mission trip.

They are here to help those still in need of home repairs after last year’s floods. Yes, a lot of need remains.

Knowing that so many youth groups from Brentwood will travel hundreds, and even thousands of miles, this summer on to perform mission work elsewhere, got me thinking. Just think about how much work could be done right here in Middle Tennessee that would save hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on those long-distance mission trips -- money could be put to so much use close to home, or sent to help those in Joplin, Mo. or Tuscaloosa, Ala. or Glade Spring Va.

I am glad Emma and her daughter Diana are here. We’ll get a chance to visit and catch up. But still I can’t help but think about the gas and the hours lost traveling and such.

Maybe I’m just jealous because I’m not going on a mission trip this year. A trip to Biloxi a few years ago remains one of the most rewarding trips I’ve ever taken.

Anyone need a chaperone?

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-06-20T10:20:00.001-05:00

Opining on bumps and lumps, WMC and so much more
Good morning Brentwood!

Please check back for a new BrentWord later today. In the meantime, check out all of our other great new columnists as well as the wonderful writers who have been with us from the start.

For instance, ladies, our new image and fashion columnist Mila Grigg has the scoop on how to keep all those lumps and bumps disguised in summer without sweltering in her first column today. And Bob McKinney, whose What I Know column is found right below BrentWord on the home page today, shares his take on the recent move to sell Williamson Medical Center.

You never know what you'll find in BHP. That's why you should never go a day -- or hours -- without checking in at www.brentwoodhomepage.com. You can also follow us via Facebook and Twitter too!

Now, it's back to the real task at hand -- a new BrentWord. Do you have a scoop to share? Email me at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-06-16T10:03:00.002-05:00

Dear Chris: That would be the Brentwood YMCA

Ashley, Ashley, Ashley. Get over the loser Bentley. You’ve got all of those cute bachelors traveling the world with you and you’re stuck on Bentley the super-dud?

But enough with ABC’s The Bachelorette. If you were like me on Monday night, the long-running he-loves-me-he-loves-me-not show was just eye candy to get us to ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition. Celebrity fitness guru Chris Powell worked with Williamson County’s own Dana Baker for a year to help the gentle man with a huge voice (and previously huge frame to match it) lose over 200 pounds.

But what was anticipated to be a huge moment for the Brentwood Family YMCA where Dana began and finished his journey, was a downer when Chris looked into the camera and said they were at the Franklin Y.

Sigh. Our time to shine and Franklin goes and gets the glory again.

Truthfully, though, it was an inspiring and aspiring hour of television, especially for someone like me who has a little problem with food herself. And good for Dana for coming out and coming to terms with who he really is.

If you missed it on TV, you can watch the video online. Click here for the link.

Ordinance 2011: Going once, going twice

It’s been fun, relatively speaking, attending the most recent City Commission meetings to observe how new Mayor Paul Webb runs things. I’m convinced he was a professional auctioneer in a past life though he emphatically denies it.

I’m telling you, that man can get through a meeting in record time. If you’re lucky, you might catch half of the fine print he must by law read aloud at the meetings. Then again, some would say we’re luckier still if we don’t.

See ya on Saturday

There’s good news for everyone coming to Town Center Saturday this weekend. The forecast is for a high of 91 degrees – a far cry from the high of 60something reached at the first one in April. So there are a few isolated thunderstorms forecast; let’s just not go there.

Come find us at the BHP tent to say hi, pick up a new BHP bumper sticker and sign up to get our daily newsletters.

The street fair/farmers market is the best thing to happen in Brentwood in a long time. Come check it out for yourself!

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-06-14T09:24:00.001-05:00

Gas prices continue to cause slow burn
Maybe when it comes to Brentwood’s gas prices, a little perspective might help. The average price for a gallon of gas nationally Sunday was $3.71. So that's the good news.

The bad is that there’s no need to average the cost here since it seems every station within a half mile radius of the Franklin Road and Old Hickory Boulevard intersections always charges the same thing. On Sunday, that price was $3.65.

I know this isn’t breaking news to anyone who lives here, or who routinely makes the trek to Costco to pay about 15 cents less per gallon. I know people who now buy everything they possibly can at Kroger in order to take advantage of its partnership with Shell, which offers a discount IF enough Kroger points have been earned. I never seem to reach that point.

Nope, this is about a road trip I took this weekend to South Carolina. Since I was (as always) running late to hit the road Saturday afternoon, I pulled into one of our fine stations and filled up at $3.67. That tank got me all the way to Greenville.
Almost exactly 24 hours later, I pulled into a Greenville station and filled up the tank at $3.35 a gallon. If I had paid with cash, it would have been $3.08. I saw a few $3.36 and $3.37 a gallon stations too.

That tank got me home, but I couldn’t help but notice gas prices on billboards across S.C., North Carolina and Tennessee. They were all lower than here at home.

Unfortunately now I have to fill up again. Costco here I come.

Did you see the story on scooters in the big paper on Sunday? I think that’s the answer for me. It makes perfect sense, since almost everything I do is within a two-mile radius of the former home office. Or maybe I’ll get one of those cut new Nissan Leafs. Or I guess I could … walk.

Let’s not go there. At least not until October.

More new columns on the way
Have you been reading our new columns? Today be sure to check out Bob McKinney's What I Know column on the front page and Arnelle Adcock's Business Matters in Business. Did you know you can take home an opened bottle of wine you’ve purchased in a restaurant? I didn’t realize that until Friday’s Saucy Sister’s Lift Your Spirits column in Food & Drink. And Jodi Rall is hitting her stride “In the Bubble” in Lifestyle.

Later this week we’ll introduce two more columnists to the mix. We’re pretty sure you’re going to be as excited about them as we are. Stay tuned for details.

Susan Leathers is editor of Brentwood Home Page. Click here to read previous columns. Email her at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com

2011-06-09T10:58:00.001-05:00

Preaching the word, pepper spraying police don't mix

I shouldn't admit this, but I smiled when I learned Sunday that Glynis Bethel had been arrested in downtown Nashville, charged with two counts of assault and one count of resisting an officer. Bethel, you may recall, is half of the "fire and brimstone preaching" couple who with their three teenage children have held Brentwood and now Metro Nashville hostage in recent weeks.

For the record, I'm one of many – and I mean many – people here who have been listed in lawsuits the Bethels have tried to file with the U.S. District Attorney's office. Judge Todd Campbell (proclaimed a "wicked bastard" by Glynis on her Twitter site) has denied their petition of poverty which would allow the suits to be filed without paying a mandated $300 fee.

What put Glynis in jail? She allegedly pepper sprayed two people, a young woman and a Metro Nashville police officer. Her bond was set at $10,000. According to MNPD spokesman Don Aaron Wednesday morning, she has posted bond and been released.

Lord only knows what will happen this week with the CMA Music Fest happening downtown.

With the exception of their first appearances in Brentwood when they repeated a scenario they had played out in public schools across several states – trying to enroll their children under the guise of being homeless – and a subsequent altercation with a Brentwood High parent at one of the demonstrations the Bethels held outside of the school in April, BHP along with most local media outfits have not covered the family's antics because they are not news. They instead are a self-made spectacle that thrives on attention.

But the family has cost local governments, school districts and now every citizen in Brentwood a lot, in the way of money, time, manpower and added regulations not to mention aggravation.

The recent additions to the Brentwood Library's conduct policy? You can call it the Bethel Code. The family from Loxley, Ala. forced the Brentwood Library Board and City Commission to take action that had not been considered or needed here earlier, though other libraries, such as the Downtown Nashville one have had to implement similar policies in recent years.

The Bethels are bullies. Until the recent arrest, they've been trying to play everyone like pawns and they are good at it. They've had years of practice.

I've been proud to observe how Brentwood and Williamson County have responded to them publicly – with stiff backs and quiet reserve. But as every Brentwood school child who has completed bullying training knows, it takes someone to finally stand up to a bully to stop the abuse.

Nashville Police did, and it appears they had true cause.

On June 4, shortly before 1:20 a.m., Kiara Cannon was walking with friends on Broadway near Second Avenue in downtown Nashville when they saw a group of people arguing. A few of her friends began to debate with "a group of people who were wearing bright yellow shirts that stated 'GOD HATES GAYS' and 'GOD HATES WHORES,'" Cannon stated in a police report. She stepped in to separate a friend from the argument. "When I turned back around, Ms Bethel sprayed me in the face with pepper spray. Sgt Blackburn was nearby in plainclothes and caught the incident on tape," she reported.

Since the Bethels often record their own interactions with people to use as evidence against those they feel are persecuting them, it seems fitting that someone else did the same to them.

After a disorderly person call was put out, Officer Bob Haught was among the Metro officers who responded. He reported that as officers were gathering information on the incident, Glynis tried to leave. "As I was walking toward her to stop her, she sprayed me in the face with pepper spray," the police report states.

It wasn't the first time in recent weeks one of the Bethels has allegedly pepper sprayed someone downtown. It was the first time charges were pressed.

I love our country and our constitutional rights to freedom of speech and freedom of religion, even when at times those freedoms cause me to cringe when I see how some choose to use them.

This time the issue wasn't constitutional, it was criminal. I'll be surprised if Glynis can chant her way out of this one.

I do hope, but don't expect, it will quiet her.

Originally posted in the Brentwood Home Page.

2011-06-09T10:55:00.002-05:00

A lesson about filling life's basket with too much stuff

It hit me first as I was trying to decide between the 24-roll package of Kirkland-brand toilet tissue and the super-soft and new-and- improved Charmin while shopping Saturday at Brentwood’s Costco. It hit again when I put three 44-ounce bottles of catsup in my basket.

Who was I shopping for? Not a growing family of four that includes two teenage boys, for sure.

With one son now a college graduate and another working at a camp in Arkansas for the summer, we’re bona fide empty nesters. In fact, since it seems like my husband and I are rarely home at the same time these days, and Lord knows I seldom cook, do I really need to buy six boxes of pasta or five pounds of ground beef or a huge bag of salad greens at one time?

For years I could not understand why my now 79-year-old mother continues to keep the side-by-side refrigerator freezer in her kitchen, the big freezer in the utility room and the “extra” refrigerator in the garage packed with food. Now I get it: She never got used to her family of six becoming a family of two.

That woman could eat out of her freezer for two years and never have to go to the grocery store. She says she needs and uses it all. My siblings and I pray for the power to go off at least once a year so she is forced to clean it out occasionally and start over.

I think I'm following in her footsteps and I don't know if I like it.

The above all came back to mind in a very weird way Saturday night while watching one of the many TV news crews who had gathered at the home of Trace and Rhonda Adkins after a huge fire destroyed most of their belongings.

“It’s just stuff,” Rhonda Adkins told one of reporters on the scene in Brentwood’s BonBrook neighborhood.

She wasn’t being disrespectful of her family’s belongings, she was just putting them into the proper perspective. Her children escaped unharmed. Her nanny and the daughter of a neighbor were OK.

Stuff can be replaced. Loved ones can’t.

We all have too much stuff, and sometimes toilet paper. Do we have enough loved ones? I hope so.

Originally posted in the Brentwood Home Page.

2011-06-09T10:49:00.000-05:00

Lovin' our B: Serving up news, and maybe a little chicken

Have you seen our new signage outside of our new office at the Town Center Roundabout? Our signature B is definitely eye-catching, which is why we paid the big bucks for it. But the first time Kelly and I saw it, driving back to the office from a meeting, we both burst out laughing.

“It’s terrible!” Kelly said.

“It looks like a Broaster Chicken store!” I responded.

What took us by surprise was the white background on our B that definitely made it “pop” as our sign guy said it would. Can’t blame him, we gave him the green light. And as time has passed, and reader after reader tells us they’ve “seen your B!” or “Now I know where your new office is,” we’ve grown to love it. Plus, neither one of us was looking forward to getting up on a ladder with an X-Acto knife and trying to trim the white away.

I continued to use the Broaster Chicken line anytime I gave directions to our new digs. “Just look for the building that looks like you could pick up two legs and a thigh of broasted chicken,” I’d say.

Imagine my surprise a few Saturdays ago when I was screaming down Franklin Road, late to cover the opening of the city’s first dog park. Just before getting to Concord Road, a bright red and blue sign caught my eye outside the Brentwood Market.

“Genuine Broaster Chicken” it read.

Making the world even smaller, after all of the hoopla had died down at the dog park that morning, a couple came in with one of the biggest dogs I’d ever seen. Tiberius, a young Saint Bernard, dwarfed all of her fellow canines. Of course I had to take her picture and get her story for BHP.

Turns out her owners are Archie and Deonna Miller – who just recently bought the Brentwood Market. When he told me that, I laughed out loud again, then shared the story of our B.

Coincidence? I don’t think so.

It took me a while, but on Wednesday I made a special trip to the market to try out the “Genuine Broaster Chicken.”

Folks, despite my love of food, I have not eaten chicken or turkey skin in years. Guess that’s my way of being “healthy.” Well, I’m here to tell you that I not only ate the skin, I think I would have eaten the bones if that had been possible.

You’ll find my review in our Food & Drinks section today, along with our new wine & spirits column, being penned for us by the Saucy Sisters, Barbara Nowak and Beverly Wichman. Look for more food coverage in the weeks and months ahead. And if you know of a great food story we could consider, let me know.

Originally posted in the Brentwood Home Page.

2011-06-09T10:44:00.002-05:00

Town Center Saturdays has noisy competition, and a few love notes

So, are you over the cicadas yet?

I’ve got big news if you just can’t get enough of the noisy winged things. An official Nashville Cicada Festival 2024 is already in the works! It’s set for May 18, 2024 from noon to 11:30 p.m. Organizer Jeff Bradford has already gotten 60 affirmative RSVPs on the Nashville Cicada Festival 2024 Facebook page. The citywide festival will feature a cicada art show, cicada cook-off, cicada beauty contest, cicada-inspired music, cicada fashion and “much more,” says Jeff, an old newspaper guy who now owns a very successful Nashville PR firm.

I’m not positive, but I think I am on the official steering committee. Jeff must have heard about my years of work to establish the Brentwood Mole Fest, which was thankfully overshadowed by Town Center Saturdays.

A location for the 2024 Cicada Fest is still being sought. One steering committee member has suggested “a field with lots of mature trees and plenty of cold, frosty 'Bugweiser.'” Good thing we have 13 more years to work out the details.

Luckily for us, all the details have been worked out for the next Town Center Saturday, planned for June 18. Let’s see: The cicada invasion lasts four to six weeks depending upon what source you check. They started hatching – and buzzing – in mid May. Here's hoping we have a cicada-free TCS festival, farm market and overall great time.

I have some romance news to share: First, happy 24th anniversary to the best business partner anyone can have, Kelly Gilfillan and her husband Dave. They must have gotten married when they were teenagers because Larry and I are celebrating our silver anniversary in August and we’re a LOT older than they are.

Also, a big congratulations to City Commissioner Anne Dunn and her husband John. Their daughter Amy was married Sunday. How did I know? I saw Anne in the recently reopened Brentwood Shoney’s just hours before the ceremony.

Now that’s what I call one laid back mother of the bride.

Speaking of weddings and anniversaries, we’re ramping up our coverage of special events like these. If you have a wedding in your future, Brentwood Home Page would love to post an engagement announcement. A wedding? One of those landmark anniversaries?

We’re working on new forms that will be super-easy to fill out, but until we have those ready to roll, we invite our readers celebrating special passages in their lives to send us announcements and a picture to share with friends and family via BHP in our Lifestyles section. Send your announcement to brea@brentwoodhomepage.com, along with the name and a daytime telephone number of a contact person.

Originally posted in the Brentwood Home Page.

Checking in, I know it's been awhile...

2010-03-08T10:57:00.002-06:00

Greetings all!
I hope you've been following BrentWord at www.brentwoodhomepage.com. But today for some reason, I thought I needed to check back in here.

It's going to be a busy week around here. The Brentwood High School spring musical, Little Shop of Horrors, opens Thursday night and we're expecting a slew of company. Thomas is the man-eating plant, so his voice will star instead of his body this year. There are some tremendous high school productions coming up. Check out this link for details, and look for additional coverage as each gets closer.

What's going on in your neck of the woods? If you have a story idea, please let me know!

Susan

My Brentwoodians of the year are....

2010-01-04T09:15:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year everyone! It seems like everyone's ready to say goodbye to 2009, and much of the last decade. I know I am. Time to embrace the future and new opportunities and dreams.

Today's BrentWord column at Brentwood Home Page is about my unofficial Brentwoodian of the Year honors. Please check it out, as well as the rest of the website. Our goal this year is GROWTH and AWARENESS of the site, so please pass along the link to everyone you know who lives or works in Brentwood.

So, who do I think deserved to be honored in 2009? Click below to find out!

http://www.brentwoodhomepage.com/news.php?viewStory=1163

Billy Jim, Grandmas and more....

2009-12-21T09:53:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas week! I can't believe 2009 is almost over. It will definitely go down as one of the most memorable in my life. If I had the time to sit down and do a timeline from beginning to end, I don't think I'd believe it all myself.
Brentwood Home Page's biggest story today is a sad one: The passing of Billy Jim Vaughn, Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 1 for almost 75 years. He died Saturday at the age of 97 and no doubt is smiling down on everyone from the Boy Scout camp in the sky.
Son Martin had ACL surgery on Friday so the Leathers will be sticking close to home this holiday season, and loving every minute of laying low (well, between trips to Vandy for rehab, that is).
Our Sunday School class is hosting Room at the Inn on Christmas Eve. It's one of the most special things we do, and truly makes you remember the "reason for the season."
That's it, I just wanted to post an update here and direct you to BHP. Hey, Mere Bulles has donated a $100 gift certificate for this week's BHP member drawing. Make sure you sign on as an official member so you will be eligible!
Take care out there over the next few days, and remember to smile!
Susan
www.brentwoodhomepage.com

A busy December ahead....

2009-11-30T11:00:00.002-06:00

Greetings all!
I just wanted to stop by here and say Hi! and to remind you to please check out Brentwood Home Page -- and share it with your friends. It's been an amazing three-month run already, with steady readership and advertising growth. Can't wait to see where we'll be in another three months, year, and onward.
We have posted a Holiday wrap of events that we'll be adding to as we get them. Please be sure to bookmark it and to check back often for new additions. As well, the city's Morning with Santa, annual tree lighting and luminaria display are just ahead.
Fires have destroyed three Brentwood homes in as many months. Today we offer fire-prevention tips from Asst. Fire Chief Brian Goss. And coming up later this week, exclusive interviews with Cal Turner, former CEO of Dollar General and owner of the farm we all claim as our own, and Jo Dee Messina who is giving TWO free benefit concerts in Brentwood this Saturday.
Brentwood High didn't make it to the state finals in football, but we still salute them, as well as Brentwood Academy for their great runs toward the titles this year.
Read stories on the above, plus much, much more at www.brentwoodhomepage.com.
Oh, and are you a BHP Facebook fan yet? Our goal is 1000 by the New Year. If you're a Facebook member, please "friend" us today!
Happy Holidays!
Susan

Beautiful Monday, and one full of news

2009-11-02T09:24:00.003-06:00

Good Morning! It's a glorious day in Brentwood this Monday, Nov. 2. If you haven't checked out Brentwood Home Page today, you should. Here's a sampling:

Proposed school calendars already creating buzz

Leve: Discussion begins on Thursday

On Saturday, school board member Terry Leve shared with his District 6 constituents an email outlining three proposed 2010-2011 Williamson County Schools academic calendars. By Sunday, many Brentwood parents were already heating up the internet, passing emails back and forth about the proposals.

Brentwood shops say 'Happy Holidays' early

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. That means holiday specials and promotions are just around the corner. For many stores, it also means the time has come for this season’s open house events – with several planned as early as this week.

Fifth annual Hoover Run's Saturday

The Hoover Run for Hope 5k and children’s one-mile run is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7 at Kenrose Elementary School in Brentwood. In its fifth year, this event has raised more than $100,000 to support the mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

And my own BrentWord column:

Respect the past but let's move on with the future
I think Brentwood, and Williamson County as a whole, are at an important crossroads. Must we always hold on to the past or might we take a chance to see what exciting things the future might hold?
The question has been heavy on my mind for the past several days. It doesn't stem from one event but several I experienced in the last week.

Are you a BHP member? Sign up for our email alerts and you become automatically eligible for our free giveaways! We'd love to have you follow us on Facebook and Twitter too.

Have a great day!

A few updates....

2009-10-20T11:07:00.002-05:00

I sure hope you've made Brentwood Home Page (www.brentwoodhomepage.com) YOUR home page, or at least signed on as member. We have fresh stories every day, breaking news as it happens and the best columnists in the state of Tennessee. Truly.
We send our thoughts and prayers to the Mott family, whose Highland Park home was destroyed by fire in the early morning hours of Sunday. We send our congratulations to the Owen Chapel Church of Christ for celebrating 150 years, and to the City of Brentwood for earning an A for its part organizating and orchestrating the record-setting Greater Nashville Race for the Cure on Oct. 10.
You can find out more on all of these stories by visiting www.brentwoodhomepage.com -- The Go To Place for Everything Brentwood.
Don't let those imposter sites fool you: We're the only one for Brentwood, by Brentwood.
Have a great day!

Happy Columbus Day!

2009-10-12T08:52:00.003-05:00

It's Monday, Oct. 12, Columbus Day. Guess that means the BHP post office box won't be filled with any big checks today. So sad.
But if you are one of the lucky ones who get the day off, celebrate by catching up on the all the news at Brentwood Home Page, www.brentwoodhomepage.com.
Take a few minutes to check out our sections, read past columns and submit your group's upcoming events on our community calendar.
And if you participated in, or know someone who participated in, the 2009 Greater Nashville Race for the Cure held on Saturday right here in Brentwood, be sure to check out all the stories, slide shows and photo galleries. You may just see someone you know!

One month anniversary of BHP start today

2009-10-01T13:06:00.002-05:00

Can you believe it's Oct. 1? My dad turns 82 today, Emory & Henry is undefeated in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference in football, the weather is beautiful and Brentwood Home Page is officially one month old.
Life is good.
In the past month, I have written 22 BrentWord columns and at least that many news stories. We've established ourselves as Brentwood's media leader in timely and complete coverage of public safety, government, local sports and more.
Our ad sales are increasing and more and more people are learning that www.brentwoodhomepage.com exists.
We're exhausted. And pumped.
Please continue to send your ideas and feedback, support our advertisers (and tell them you saw their ads on BHP!) and to share our address with everyone you know who works and lives in Brentwood.
AND, if you sign up to be a member by Oct. 7, you'll be automatically entered in our first promotional drawing! This time we're giving away a Nike Sport Watch, courtesy of Fleet Feet. Already a member? Don't worry, your name's already in the pot!
Have a great day!

Get thyself to the library!

2009-09-16T08:52:00.003-05:00

It's raining and dreary outside, but let's just enjoy it for a while.
Want to make sure everyone in Brentwood knows the Brentwood Library is unveiling its major expansion and renovation project this Saturday, from 10am to 1 pm.
You can find out all about it, plus get a sneak peek with our slideshow, at Brentwood Home Page (www.brentwoodhomepage.com) today. And while you're there, see how many Brentwood entrepreneurs are being honored tonight by the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, catch up with our columnists, check out our Race for the Cure page (you know the huge event is moving to Brentwood this year, right??!), the latest school news and more.
Oh, and don't forget your umbrella if you're headed out. The Brentwood forecast, according to the Accuweather forecast at BHP calls for a thunderstorm around noon Wednesday!

A king is coming to Brentwood!

2009-09-12T09:45:00.002-05:00

Greetings all!
I hope you've been following BrentWord over at www.brentwoodhomepage.com but if not, thought I'd share a few highlights from columns I've written this week:

A real King (and his queen) is coming to Brentwood next month. You learn amazing things when you spend a Happy Hour with Mayor Betsy Crossley.
The 'Secret Life' of teen sex, teen pregnancy and teen parenting threw a loop in plans to get ready for a teen flower party.
The city's Parks Director Dave Bunt and his bride Jennifer celebrated Labor Day the old-fashioned way: By celebrating the labor and delivery of son Parker.
Brentwood lost a talented treasure last week but her friends at The Martin Center are going to make sure she's not forgotten.
And my most recent: Did you know mastodons once roamed Brentwood? It's true!

Follow this link to BrentWord columns on BHP. And please help us spread the word about Brentwood's only independent, exclusive news source by and for people who live here.

Today at Brentwood Home Page

2009-09-03T16:28:00.003-05:00

Happy Thursday!
The sun returned this afternoon, just in time for some Thursday night football. Ravenwood's playing at home; the Titans are playing downtown, and college ball is on TV. And, of course, the 'Dores are going to take it to Western Carolina on Saturday!
Today at Brentwood Home Page, you'll find our second slide show. We may just get good at it if we keep trying. This one features pictures of the incredible new library at Brentwood High School. OK, it's not entirely new but it could be. Check it out.
In BrentWord, I share a few of my favorite Facebook friends thoughts. Hope they don't mind.
Dr. Jim Wellborn starts his new parenting column that's all about parenting TEENS. Yes, we still need some help and advice even when the kids get older. In fact, we need more of it.
Jill Burgin has new column on what she didn't do over summer vacation.
And there are lots of new postings on our inside sections, many of them contributed by readers like you.
So, there you have it. If you haven't checked out www.brentwoodhomepage.com, you can now. We're putting new stories up everyday. Please sign in so you can start getting our email blasts. Actually, sign up even if you are already getting the email blasts. You'll then be eligible for contests and giveaways of things like tropical vacations and gold bars and Titans PSLs and season tickets. And if you believe that ...
But please do sign up, and spread the word about "the go to place for everything Brentwood."
And, of course, thanks for reading

Have you checked out BHP today?

2009-08-25T07:52:00.002-05:00

Today at Brentwood Home Page (www.brentwoodhomepage.com), you'll find:

In BrentWord: How the Brentwood chamber speaker took second billing to the speaker he brought with him.
In City News: A report from last night's City Commission meeting that includes castles, Boy Scouts and speed bumps.
In School News: First there were 5, then there were 3 and now there are 2: Finalists for Williamson County Schools' Director of Schools position.
In Business News: Hot Pink celebrates its 5th birthday.
Coming up: Fall sports overviews for BHS, RHS and BA, and much more.

Brentwood Home Page lives!

2009-08-16T22:15:00.003-05:00

Dear BrentWord readers,
It's been a pleasure sharing news and nuggets about life in Brentwood here at brentword.blogspot.com over the past several months. But today I'm happy to announce that Brentwood Home Page (www.brentwoodhomepage.com), Brentwood's only independent, online "newspaper" is now live and my blog will move over to that site immediately.
This site will remain active in case anyone wants or needs previous posts. Who knows, I may even post fresh news here once in a while just to keep life interesting.
In the meantime, please check out our new website. The official launch date is Sept.1, but we activated our beta site in order to get feedback, constructive critiques and suggestions from people like you, and to tackle technical issues we didn't know existed until the site went live. For instance, if you are on a Mac, we've learned the home page runs really wide, though inside pages seem fine. We hope to have that solved ASAP.
I'll still be twittering @brentword, but we have a Brentwood Home Page twitter account too, @brentwoodhomepg. Please follow us! We'd also love for you to become a Brentwood Home Page fan on Facebook. Our goal is 500 fans by Sept. 1.
Thanks to all who have mentored, coached, supported and second-guessed Kelly Gilfillan and I as we've undertaken this venture. More than one of you has told us we won't take a vacation for the next three years.
Good thing Brentwood's such a great place to live.

Need a job? Jefferson's is hiring!

2009-08-14T11:06:00.004-05:00

Just got off the phone with Jeff Webb, owner of what will be Brentwood's newest restaurant as soon as it opens.
Jefferson's, part of a small chain of family-friendly sports bar and grill restaurants, could open its doors at 214 Ward Circle in Maryland Farms today except for one thing: employees.
Jeff told me that's the hang up right now and he'll open as soon as he has hired and trained wait staff and cooks. Unbelievably given the economy, he said he's had a hard time attracting staff.
So if you or someone you know would be interested in learning more, have them contact Jeff at 661-9464. What are the job requirements? "That they be polite," he said.
Love it.
The photo is from Jefferson's Lawrence, Kansas location. Can you picture yourself doing the same thing here?
In the meantime, check out Jefferson's website to get a sneak peek at the menu, which specializes in wings, burgers and oysters. It should be a nice addition to the ever-growing mix of eating options we now have. http://www.jeffersonsrestaurant.com/.

Introducing Brentwood Home Page

2009-08-13T17:45:00.007-05:00

City's only exclusive news source
plans 'soft launch' this weekend

Sorry BrentWord the blog's been lacking in fresh material over the past few days. The kickoff party for Brentwood Home Page, our new independent, online "newspaper" exclusively covering Brentwood, took place Tuesday. The site, www.brentwoodhomepage.com, is going live in a few days with its official launch September 1. As you can imagine, it's been busy around the BrentWord/BHP home office.
What can you do, dear readers, to make Brentwood Home Page a success?
Read it, critique it and send us suggestions over the next few weeks to help us get all the kinks out before we tell the masses it's here.
Once the site is live, if you belong to a Brentwood-based civic organization with a meeting or fundraiser or lecture coming up, add it to our community calendar. Have a car or diamond ring to sell? List it in our free classified sections. Do you have a story idea to share? Send me an email at susan@brentwoodhomepage.com.
If you own a business or a professional office here, consider advertising with us, or listing your business in our business directory. We'll be happy to send you a media kit or meet with you to discuss all the possibilities. Email kelly@brentwoodhomepage.com for details.
If you see news happening, email news@brentwoodhomepage.com.
Follow us on Twitter @brentwoodhomepg and become a fan of Brentwood Home Page on Facebook.
And most of all, please tell others that http://www.brentwoodhomepage.com/ is "The Go To Place for Everything Brentwood." Or at least it will be soon.
BrentWord will find a new home on the website too, along with Jill Burgin's "Joyride" and Dr. Bill Fleet's "Sawdust and Turnip Greens" columns. Dr. Jeff Wilson's unique look at how life and faith intersect will be featured in his weekly column "Ankle High in Deep Water." And Brentwood-based environmentalist Don Green will be writing on "green" issues that concern our city.
More regular features are planned and many other talented journalists will be contributing writers.
Thanks for being part of the amazing ride that's been BrentWord.blogspot.com these past six months. Brentwood Home Page will be much more.
Hop on the train and let's start this journey together.

Latest crime report just released

2009-08-13T17:42:00.002-05:00

Capt. Jeff Hughes of the Brentwood Police Department has released the most recent crime report, with crimes investigated through Wednesday, Aug. 12.
Business burglary
* Glass on the south door of the Sonic at 208B Wilson Pike was broken and cash taken on Aug. 11. A suspect has been named.
* A rear door was forced open at a Sunset Road home between Aug. 8 and Aug. 10 when the owners were out of town.
* A front door was forced open at an Old Smyrna Road home on Aug. 12. Computers, jewelry, cameras and other items were taken. A neighbor saw a maroon sedan leave the residence.
Theft from motor vehicle
* Purses and their contents were taken from a car parked at the Brentwood Library on Concord Road after the passenger side windows were broken out on two vehicles.
Vandalism
* A Bridlewood Lane mailbox in River Oaks was damaged on Aug. 9 just after midnight.
* Car windows were broken out of a vehicle parked on Brookview Drive in Liberty Downs in the late night, early morning hours of Aug. 12 and 13. A juvenile has been named as a suspect.
General Theft
* Furniture and other belongs were taken from a self-storage unit on General George Patton Drive on Aug. 1. An acquaintance was named as a suspect.
* Cash, merchandise and Lotto tickets were embezzled from the Mapco Mart on Moore’s Lane. A warrant has been obtained on an employee.
* Credit cards and insurance cards were removed from a wallet at Valentine Interiors on Franklin Road Aug. 5.
* Employees of a mobile auto detailing company are suspected of filling their water tanks at Crouch Engineering at Wilson Pike Circle between May 28 and Aug. 6. Suspects have been named.
* Movie and video games were shoplifted from Costco on Seaboard Lane Aug. 8. A suspect was arrested.
* Toilet paper dispensers were pried open at Crockett Park between Aug. 8 and 9.

Fairest of the Fair? Scales students!

2009-08-11T13:23:00.003-05:00

Proud mom Mary Ann Hernandez emailed this morning that the Little Miss Williamson County Fair pageant had two Brentwood winners.
Congratulations to Carly Clo who won the crown and Alicia Hernandez, right, who was second runner up. Both are students at Scales Elementary and "both girls were beautiful!" Mary Ann writes. No doubt.
Judges were Miss Tennessee and two past Miss Tennessee contestants.
Keep those fair accounts, pictures and blue-ribbon news coming!

City paves way toward new Pewitt Drive

2009-08-10T22:22:00.005-05:00

Pigs can fly and Pewitt Drive might actually become a real city street -- or at least half of it could soon be fixed to public-road standards.
It's true. A face lift just might be in store for part of the private road that is a major connector in the heart of our existing Town Center.
The City Commission adopted two resolutions Monday night that would spur the project along. The first authorized a contract for the Pewitt Drive sewer relocation project, while the second authorized "an agreement with Ragan-Smith Associates for engineering services for roadway improvements to Pewitt Drive."
In a nutshell, old sewer lines that now split two parcels of land located between Pewitt and the railroad tracks basically into undevelopable property will be replaced by new and more beautiful sewer lines under the new street. We're talking the half behind the under-construction Pinnacle Bank and adjacent retail buildings.
This is something to celebrate folks. I foresee the inaugural Town Center/Mole Festival now taking place not only down Town Center Way, but across Pewitt Drive too. Unfortunately, however, we may have to put it off until 2011 unless everyone can get this project going and quick.
You see, the approved plans don't include sidewalks. City Manager Mike Walker said whoever develops those properties will have to put in sidewalks that meet the Town Center C-4 Zoning regulations themselves. And we can't have a festival without sidewalks. That's why I gave up on the idea of hosting it on Centerview Drive a few years ago.
And there's another rub. Bobby Campbell of Campbell Glass has put up small "For Sale" signs at his property located at the corner of Town Center Way and Pewitt. If the asking price I hear, but have not confirmed, is true, those sidewalks may be a long time coming.

Christmas comes early to principals

2009-08-10T21:51:00.006-05:00

The bigger-than-normal crowd at Monday night's City Commission meeting was on its best behavior before the mayor hit the gavel and got things going.

Turns out most of the individuals filling the right-hand corner of the board room weren't citizens upset over last month's rise in sewer rates, or Boy Scouts working on government merit badges.

Every principal of a Brentwood public school was on hand to receive a gift from the city -- gifts in the forms of checks approved as part of the 2009-2010 fiscal year budget.

Maintaining excellence in our local schools is a priority, Mayor Betsy Crossley said, as she shared that over the years the city has donated more than $3.6 million to local schools. This year's donation totals $225,000 "or almost a quarter of a million dollars."

Each elementary school principal received a check for $10,000, while each middle school principal was handed an envelope with a $15,000 one. Kevin Keidel and Dr. Pam Vaden, principals of Brentwood and Ravenwood high schools respectively, each gratefully accepted checks written out for $60,000.

Keidel said he wanted to thank the board "not only for the donation, but for all your support." He specifically mentioned the city's recent ban on guns in city parks which allowed schools to continue to use park facilities for school athletics and other programming. Brentwood High, which is just completing a $3.8 million renovation, will use the money to buy computers for its new library, he said.

In addition to the principals, school board members Pat Anderson, Susan Graham and Terry Leve, who all represent Brentwood districts, attended.

Happy Birthday Mrs. Graham

Speaking of the school board, Graham sure earned some brownie points for being there. The mayor noted to one and all that it was Graham's 50th birthday. She had delayed celebrating with her family in order to see the check presentations.

I knew I liked that woman. But gosh, I would have sworn she was 38 like me.

Former BHS QB packs on pounds, talent

2009-08-10T21:30:00.006-05:00

Check out this story by Jeff Lockridge in today's Tennessean Sports section ...

By Jeff Lockridge
Thomas Welch has told his teammates on the Vanderbilt offensive line that he was once a lean, mean quarterback at nearby Brentwood High.
Not everyone is buying his sales pitch.
"I can't believe that," senior center Bradley Vierling said. "That's what I hear. He can still throw the ball a little bit, but I like his hand on the ground."
Welch was the Bruins' quarterback as a junior but he spent his senior season as a 6-foot-7, 220-pound tight end/defensive end in 2004.
As he readies for his senior year at Vanderbilt, he weighs 310 pounds. He has moved from tight end to right tackle to left tackle since arriving on campus.

Read the entire story at http://tinyurl.com/BWwelch.

Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt Athletics.

Kids: Let the countdown begin

2009-08-10T21:15:00.005-05:00

Bruins will start right on time
I just love a good rumor. So, apparently does Carol Birdsong, Williamson County Schools spokesperson. I could almost see her smiling about the most recent one I sent her to dispel.
Sorry Bruins, Brentwood High starts bright and early Thursday morning, right on schedule.
Apparently some had heard it was opening a week late because of construction delays.
Not so, says Carol. "I just love a good rumor but I have to say that there is not one bit of truth to it. We are looking good at BHS. .. I hope to head over that way this week to see the new TV studio and classroom."

RHS population tops 1900
Over at Ravenwood, the rumors of a growing student population are true. Dr. Pam Vaden, RHS principal, told the Brentwood City Commission Monday night that as of this morning, enrollment there has topped 1,900. Luckily for her, she was at the meeting to receive a check from the city for $60,000. She said it will go in part to the additional instructional materials needed to keep up with the growing number of students.
As for the rumor that the increase at Ravenwood can be attributed to the growing number of private school students who are switching to public given the economy, well, Carol shoots that one down too ... to a point.
"Regular growth is the reason for portables at RHS,"she said. "We knew well in advance we would have to have them there.
"I don't have any numbers to give you regarding private school enrollment although we know we have had some increase (from private school and home school students) across the county."

And on a final note...
Two days and counting kids: Have you finished your summer reading?

Calling all Brentwood fair winners!

2009-08-10T14:28:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Lisa Rusche of Nashville Needleworks (and The Brentwood, a Bed & Breakfast), who won a Blue Ribbon for her Lamb & Eggs needlepoint at the Williamson County Fair.
If you win a contest or ribbon, let me know so I can blog about you! Just send an email to susan@brentwoodhomepage.com and put Fair Winner in the subject line. Feel free to attach a photo too!

Mayor: Fairview pig went gangbusters

2009-08-10T13:39:00.004-05:00

Don't ever think Mayor Betsy Crossley is one to make excuses. No sirree, she gives credit where credit's due, and in this case, she gave it to a little brown pig that put her piggy to shame.
The second annual Mayor's Pig Race Friday helped kick off opening night activities at the Williamson County Fair and our Brentwood mayor tried her best to retain the crown won last year by then-Vice Mayor Paul Webb. Alas, it wasn't to be.
County Mayor Rogers Anderson's pig brought home the bacon, by winning two of the three heats.
"My pig was doing great, and I really thought we had it until right at the very end when that pig just held up," she said. "The Fairview mayor's pig just came up gangbusters." And beat hers by about 25 snouts, she said.

Since she was just elected to a two-year term, she said she looks forward to coming back and trying again next year. She added she will spend the off-season in training. Not sure exactly what she means, but when she puts her mind to something look out.

Speaking of the fair, check out its website to see what's happening out there today and the rest of the week. Plus, here's a link to a Tennessean story about how corporate sponsorships help keep our local fairs afloat.
Maybe the 2010 edition will be the "Williamson County Fair presented by Brentwood Home Page." It has a nice ring to it.

Williamson County Fair website: http://www.williamsoncountyfair.org/
Middle Tennessee fairs find ways to stay afloat: http://tinyurl.com/BWcountyfairs

Not giving in to bum knee

Speaking of the mayor, Betsy let her friends on Facebook know that she is having knee surgery on Thursday.

What's the matter, I asked her.

What's not the matter, she replied, rambling off a long list of things like arthritis, a torn meniscus, something about a burr and a this and a that; well, you get the picture.

So how long are you going to be out of commission? I asked.

"Well, I'll probably miss Rotary on Friday," she said, but noted she expects to be back in the office on Monday, albeit on crutches.

As for tonight's City Commission meeting, she said it should be "pretty mundane and boring," but hinted by the time September rolls around, things should liven up again. I think that's good news...

Fair weather ahead! Cotton Candy too

2009-08-07T15:01:00.005-05:00

If it's hot, it must be time for the Williamson County Fair, which opens this afternoon for a nine-day run.

But the heat can't be helped, County Commissioner and one of Brentwood's best people, Tom Bain, told me Thursday. As the baby of the Tennessee fair circuit, Williamson County had "to get to the front of the line or the back of it" when it rejuvenated itself after a 50-year lapse four years ago.

The powers that be decided August was a better bet than late fall, so the second week in August it is, come searing temps or drenching rains or a combo of both. But don't let that deter you. In fact, the 10-day forecast looks pretty good. Sure, there's a chance of isolated thunder storms most days, but what summer days aren't like that? And temps are supposed to max out in the mid-80. Can't ask for much better this time of year.

Sounds good to me. And I can't wait. I need a new set of Ginsu knives. Now, I'm not sure if I'll find them there, but I've got my fingers crossed. The best knives I've ever owned I bought at the Sonoma County Fair in a pavilion packed with hawkers who sold everything from dusting wands and Orange Glo cleaner to waterless cookware.

Tom couldn't promise I'll find a pavilion full of purveyors, but he did say several will be found on the top level of the air-conditioned arena. Can't wait to check them out!

And should anyone get tired at the fair, just be on the lookout for Mayor Betsy Crossley, Commissioner Paul Webb, John Lackey, Tom Allen and Arley Henry who are among the Brentwood volunteers Tom has lined up to be "Fair Ambassadors." He's got Police Chief Ricky Watson and Fire Chief Kenny Lane on call. They'll be driving courtesy carts around the fairgrounds to give a lift or a hand to anyone who needs one, taking up tickets at the Elvis show and more.

Commissioner Joe Reagan, a CPA by trade, has worked the fair from the start as a money counter. And Sonnie Bain, one of the talented women who run Brentwood Baptist Church, is a roving ambassador, doing whatever husband Tom says needs to be done.

You have to love these folks. And all the other volunteers that make the fair happen every day.

Hope to see them, and you, there!

For complete fair information, visit www.williamsoncountyfair.org
To learn why Mayor Betsy Crossley will be saying "here suey, suey" this afternoon, read today's fun story from Williamson A.M. at http://tinyurl.com/BWpigrace

Warning: Think twice before attacking

2009-08-07T14:28:00.006-05:00

Since January of 2005, about 400 Brentwood women haven't gotten mad. They've gotten RAD.

The Brentwood Police Department offers free Rape Aggression Defense classes several times a year. The most recent class graduated Thursday night.

BrentWord intern Shanna McHenry took the class to write a first-person story on the RAD program. But even if she wasn't "working" it, as a college student, she was a great candidate. In fact, several mom and college-age daughter teams took this most-recent class together.

On Thursday, they put together all the tips, moves and defensive actions they had learned earlier in the week. Good thing their would-be attackers, aka Brentwood Police Officer Mark Wood and RAD volunteer Jeff Knutson, were well protected though they looked like red Michelin men. These ladies didn't hold back.

I won't steal any more of Shanna's thunder, so look for her story, video and a slide show when Brentwood Home Page launches in coming weeks.

And if you're a lady, age 14 or older, give serious thought to signing up in the future. I know I am!

Three candidates make cut

2009-08-06T21:00:00.003-05:00

WCS board to invite Carroll, Dearden
and Looney back for full-day visits

This just in from Carol Birdsong, Williamson County Schools spokesperson...
The Williamson County Board of Education met in special session Thursday night to narrow the field of candidates in its Director of Schools search. The Board voted to invite three candidates to return to the district for a second interview.
Those candidates include:
* Dr. Barry Carroll, superintendent, Limestone County Schools, AL
* Dennis Dearden, senior vice-president, Partnership for Excellence, AZ
* Mike Looney, superintendent, Butler County School District, AL
The candidates are expected to visit the district, each for one day, Aug. 18, 19 and 20. Those visits will be scheduled through the search firm, Ray and Associates. More information regarding the visits and second interview will be released when dates, times and locations are confirmed.
The next regular meeting of the Board will be Monday, Aug. 17, in the auditorium of the Administrative Complex.

Crime report: Donation jar among victims

2009-08-06T17:36:00.006-05:00

Police still offering $1000 reward
I hope George Whobrey, arrested for taking a donation jar with cash from the Moore's Lane Mapco on July 29, really needed the cash.
The crime was just one of several included on the just-released Brentwood Crime Report covering the last two weeks. Capt. Jeff Hughes has been in training and unavailable to file the report until today.
He was still in town, however, and in the office preparing for his conference, when the call came in July 25 for a burglary in progress on Brentwood Parkway. It turned out to be the burglary that stopped life in Brentwood at the corner of Franklin Road and Old Hickory Boulevard that afternoon for several hours while lookie loos kept watch on the police action and response from both BPD and Metro officers. The officers' actions led to the arrest of Thomas Stoll.
The crime report also includes the previously reported actions on July 26 that led to the arrest of Mitchell Clemons, Abanzer Tsegaye and a juvenile for a residential burglary on Manley Drive. A search for the suspects in west Brentwood neighborhoods and an automated telephone call from the police department had residents on alert. (http://tinyurl.com/BWarrests)
Chief Ricky Watson told me last week that he thinks at least one other burglar or team of burglars is responsible for some of the recently reported burglaries. Capt. Hughes told me on Tuesday, however, that all has been quiet in the last week, so either they are laying low after learning about the all-out police response relating to the other cases, or perhaps they have moved on. Both officers stressed the importance of citizens staying on alert, locking homes and cars, and always calling the department if you see any suspicious activity. Quick action by the victims in the July 25 and 26 cases helped lead to the subsequent arrests.
Other recent crimes reported include:
Power tools and camera equipment were taken from a Davis Drive home. Two suspects have been identified. Power tools and a generator taken from a garage in a vacant house on Brunswick Drive late July 30 or early July 31.
Five thefts from motor vehicles were reported between July 26 and Aug. 4. In four cases, the vehicles were unlocked.
A GPS, USB cable transmitter were taken from a vehicle on Southerland Place in the Mayfield subivision. A radar detector and CDs were taken during the same time frame from a vehicle on nearby Meadowlawn Drive. A GPS and iPod were taken from a vehicle parked on River Oaks' Paddock Place between July 30 and July 31, and a purse and checks were taken from a car parked at the Franklin Road Exxon in north Brentwood on Aug. 4.
On July 27, two vehicles parked at 200 Powell Place in Maryland Farms had their catalytic converters cut off .
No robberies were reported, but eight incidences of general theft were. They include:
A pipe cutter, wrenches and a bucket taken from an unlocked garage between July 13 and July 27 at a Woodland Hills home; credit and debit cards taken from a purse in the Pear Tree Avenue office on July 27; a wallet and its contents taken from a purse while the victim shopped at the Franklin Road Kroger.
Arrests were made and suspects named in two separate shoplifting cases at Ross Dress for Less on Galleria Boulevard and suspects have been named in two cases involving theft of company funds.
The city itself was a victim, when someone forced open the front door of the building at Crockett Park. Nothing was reported taken. And between July 29 and 30, a lawnmower was taken from a storage unit behind Glover and Glover on Wilson Pike Circle following a forced entry. It was later recovered.
Recent vandalism cases still under investigation
The city is offering at $1000 reward for information leading to the arrests of suspects in several vandalism crimes included in the report.
Twenty-nine mailboxes were damaged on Moores Lane, Gordon Petty Drive, Maryland Lane and Covington Drive in Brenthaven between July 27 and July 29. During that same time period, windows were broken out of several cars in the Brentwood Pointe condominium complex. A window was also broken out of a vehicle on Shady Place, also in Brenthaven, between July 27 and 28.
And in yet another disgusting report of vandalism in Oak Hall, feces was spread on another Ansley Drive resident's front door.
If you have any information about these incidents, please share it with the Brentwood Police Department at 371-0160 (http://tinyurl.com/BWreward). It seems like only arrests and prosecution will stop some of these "pranks" that are not funny at all.

BW exclusive: TCT 2010 season

2009-08-06T11:17:00.004-05:00

Though Towne Centre Theatre has two performances plus two more shows to go before concluding its third season, BrentWord has the scoop on what's ahead in 2010.
Our very own community theater will open its fourth season with Moon Over Buffalo, followed by I Remember Mama, Gypsy, Once Upon a Mattress, Exit the Body and A Christmas Story.
But until Feb. 5, when the curtain rises on playwright Ken Ludwig's comedy that earned Carol Burnett a Tony Award nomination, local theatergoers have lots of other opportunities to enjoy the restored Frierson Street theater.
Into the Woods, the musical which offers alternative endings to familiar fairy tales, ends its run this weekend, with final performances tonight, Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20 for adults; $18 for seniors (60+); and $16 for students with ID. You can reserve tickets by calling 221-1174.
After talking with Julie Murphy, the theater's office manager (and frequent TCT cast member!) on Wednesday, I can't wait for the next show, Dearly Beloved, which sounds like Steel Magnolias on steroids. It opens Sept. 25 for a three-week run, but Julie shared that a really fun fundraiser is being planned on Sept. 24 that will not only include the play but a Texas-sized wedding reception as well. Stay tuned for details.
The 2009 season winds down with the Rogers and Hammerstein family classic, The King and I.
Its run is Nov. 20-Dec. 12 and lots of children and youth will be needed for the cast so keep an eye out for audition notices later this fall.
Hmmm, maybe I could be one of the kings many wives?
I'll share 2010 season ticket info as soon as it's all squared away. I know I'll be getting one. This sounds like the best season yet.

A few links for your reading pleasure...

2009-08-06T11:07:00.004-05:00

If you have a few minutes, take the time today to read Bonnie Burch's lovely story in today's Williamson A.M. on 15-year-old Grace Gregory of Brentwood and her special relationship with Opie, the horse taking her to prominence in the world of dressage, but more importantly opening up her personal world in a most amazing way. Here's the link: http://tinyurl.com/BWfriends

And in today's Williamson Herald, sports writer Donnie Conley has a story on the BHS Bruins' football program and coach Ron Crawford, who he describes as "a model of consistency." Read more at
http://tinyurl.com/BWbhsfb

Five interviews down, WCS decision ahead

2009-08-06T10:32:00.003-05:00

James Wilson, former Fulton County, Ga. superintendent who during a brief tenure with Williamson County Schools was Centennial High School's first principal and oversaw its construction, was the final of five candidates interviewed this week for the open Director of Schools position.
The school board will meet at 6 p.m. tonight before its regularly scheduled work session to discuss the candidates and decide on its next course of action, which reportedly will be to select who they want to bring back for a final round of interviews.
I wasn't able to make the Wilson interview, but both Williamson A.M. education report Maria Giordano and Williamson Herald reporter Donna O'Neil have spent the last three nights at the county's administration building and have filed stories on the proceedings.
Here are links to check out their reports:

From Williamson A.M.:
School board could narrow director pool tonight: http://tinyurl.com/BWwcssupe5
From the Herald:
School board completes first round of director interviews: http://tinyurl.com/BWsupewh1
School Board faces tough decision after interviewing five superintendent candidates: http://tinyurl.com/BWsupewh

Scroll down to find more links in past postings and my own report from Monday nights interviews with Interim Superintendent Dr. David Health and Dennis Dearden.

Final superintendent interview tonight

2009-08-05T08:36:00.007-05:00

Candidate gives Marines credit for success
I wasn't able to make Tuesday night's interviews of Barry Carroll of Limestone County Schools in Athens, Ala., and Mike Looney of Butler County Schools in Greenville, Ala., finalists for Williamson County Schools' Director of Schools' position. But Williamson A.M.'s Maria Giordano was there and reports the dark and stormy night didn't keep the school board from the task at hand.
Read her report at http://tinyurl.com/BWwcssupe.
The interview process ends tonight at 6 p.m. with James Wilson, former superintendent, Fulton County School System, Ga. in the Carolyn Campbell Room in the Administrative Complex, 1320 West Main St., in Franklin. The school board will decide who to bring back for final interviews at a public work session Thursday.
For background on all the candidates, visit http://tinyurl.com/BWsupebios.

Sonic news hard to swallow
Also in the news, today's 'A Closer Look' column in The Tennessean's business section includes information on what fast food restaurants are "Tasty" in this recession -- in other words doing well, and what one's are "Nasty."
Included on the Nasty side was Sonic. "It specializes in things like cherry limeade and tater tots, which hard-pressed consumers have cut back on," the features states.
Obviously no one talked to the folks at our three Brentwood Sonics. It took me three circles to find a spot at the Wilson Pike Circle restaurant during Happy Hour last week, and it wasn't the first time. But I'm never deterred, nor does anyone else seem to be.
Guess I'm not the only one with a passion for Route 44 diet cherry limeades.

Other Brentwood stories to check out:

Citizens for Brentwood Green Space pushes for open space measures: http://tinyurl.com/BWgreenspace
Mooreland Estates seeks city's help with road repair: http://tinyurl.com/BWmooreland
New Vanderbilt Home Care venture will be Brentwood based: http://tinyurl.com/BWwalgreens

Concord Road closure put off until 2010

2009-08-05T08:29:00.003-05:00

Work on Sunset to Crockett portion starts soon
Concord Road will not be closed for widening this year. But it will be closed for 120 days, instead of the anticipated 90, next summer.
This much-anticipated construction update, released Tuesday by Brentwood’s Assistant City Manager Kirk Bednar in an email to Homeowners Association presidents, came after Monday’s pre-construction meeting with the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
Bednar highlighted the most significant items that will affect Brentwood residents and others who use the state road for travel. Many reflect changes in what the city anticipated. They include a proposed schedule that will start on the Sunset Road to Crockett Road phase first, according to contractor, CBM Enterprises Inc.
This means Concord Road will not be closed for the Crockett to Edmondson phase until late spring of 2010.
“While it is different than what the city expected the schedule to be and what we have been communicating, it is the best course of action given all of the circumstances,” Bednar stated. The primary reason for the change is the later-than-anticipated start. A closure during the summer months of 2010 is more desirable than a late summer start now that could lead to a mess over the winter months if there were any construction delays.
“Unfortunately, we also learned that the contract calls for a 120-day closure of the Crockett to Edmondson segment when it does occur, not 90 days like we had believed,” he wrote. The extension apparently was a condition agreed to by the state after the plans were turned into TDOT for bidding.
Construction staking and erosion control installation along the Crockett to Sunset segment will begin in the next week or so. Construction work will start soon after. The road will remain open with two-way traffic throughout the construction project with occasional temporary lane closures possible during the non-peak traffic periods of the day.
The City will have a Concord Road Construction Update page on its website at www.brentwood-tn.org by next week, Bednar wrote.

Brentwood welcomes new banks

2009-08-04T19:32:00.006-05:00

Red Mountain Bank makes it official

Movement from inside the cool confines of Red Mountain Bank out into the 90-degree weather for the bank's official ribbon cutting Tuesday took a while. No one seemed in a hurry to step outside to the parking lot.

But when everyone got there, Market President Rick Archer Jr. made quick work of it, introducing the bigwigs from the Birmingham home office, his Brentwood staff and special guests.

"You've made a big improvement to this corner," Mayor Betsy Crossley told Archer and the crowd of about 40. "It's absolutely beautiful."

Then not half as slowly as they came out, everyone filed back in, where a serious buffet of goodies and cold drinks waited.

I could grow to like ribbon cuttings, I think, with grow being the operative word.

Weight Watchers. The Martin Center. Tomorrow.

Reliant opens first Brentwood branch

And this news just arrived in the BrentWord home office:

Reliant Bank has officially opened the doors in Maryland Farms. The bank acquired the Brentwood location of Magna Bank making it Reliant’s third location and second expansion within just 10 months.
The new location at 5109 Peter Taylor Park, is located just off Maryland Way in Brentwood. The full-service branch offers consumer, business, investment and mortgage services.
Branch Manager Mike Buffler previously served as the assistant branch manager for the bank’s main office. Sarah Johnson the location’s commercial lender, joins Reliant from Magna Bank.
“This is a great opportunity for Reliant to further our footprint and meet the needs of those looking for a better banking experience. We have a great team of employees who are ready to serve the area,” Buffler stated. “Being located in Maryland Farms also provides excellent growth opportunity for the bank.”

A big open house celebration is planned later this month.

Heath, Dearden a study of opposites

2009-08-04T08:39:00.004-05:00

Three remaining WCS superintendent
interviews planned today, Wednesday
The interviews were black and white, top down and bottom up.
That's my impression of the first two of five public interviews of finalists for Williamson County Schools' Director of Schools position.
Dr. David Heath, interim WCS superintendent, and Dennis Dearden, senior vice president for the Partnership of Excellence, each answered 25 questions from school board members Monday night at the Williamson County Administration Building in Franklin.
The two candidates' respective styles and responses couldn't have been more different.
Heath consistently pointed to reinforcement of the message and staying on task as a way of reaching district goals. Dearden took a far more visionary stance, saying a great district must have buy-in from all parties involved, from the bus driver to the local business community.
Dearden was asked to describe what management and leadership qualities are needed to be successful in the position. He said a good manager gets things done day-to-day, and "they're very good at that." Leaders are visionary, he said, and see beyond the first step. He said a successful leader must have people skills, be politically savvy and have common sense. But of all great leaders, he said,"none did it alone."
Heath, who has served the past six years as WCS' deputy superintendent, was asked if he thought he could easily move from his past role as a manager to a new role as leader.
The former Brentwood High School principal said he had demonstrated that in a school setting, and was prepared to "get us going where we need to go."
Listing reasons he should be considered for the job, Heath noted he would have less of a learning curve than an outside candidate and that he could help "fast track" the system to where it wants to be. "We've developed the goals and we're on our way there," he said.
Both candidates were asked what they see as the most critical issue facing WCS in the next five years.
Heath said getting every student to pass algebra II, which is part of the No Child Left Behind standards. He also mentioned science education and adapting that curriculum to ever-changing technologies and environments.
"Funding" was Dearden's one-word answer, and he added "I think it's going to get worse." He mentioned how the economy has been "devastating" to many districts the size of Williamson County. "This is when you have to uplift people."
When asked why he should be the top candidate, Dearden said with concerns about morale, trust and funding at the top of everyone's mind, a unique leader is needed. "Williamson County is attractive to me ... It has the potential to be an absolutely great school district."
One of the most striking differences between these first two candidates was noted on how they answered a question about promoting diversity and their experience working with diverse populations.
Heath said Williamson County Schools have used the month of February to study different cultures, especially those represented in individual schools.
Dearden cited his time in Fairfax, Va., where over 100 different languages and 150 nationalities were represented in the student population. "You had to be a great listener to be able to come into a community like that."
It was an evening in contrasts. No doubt the three other candidates with interviews tonight and Wednesday will add even more to the mix. If you're interested in seeing for yourself, the remaining schedule is as follows:
Today
6 p.m., Dr. Barry Carroll, superintendent, Limestone County Schools, Ala.
8 p.m., Michael Looney, superintendent, Butler County School District, Ala.
Wednesday, Aug. 5
6 p.m., James Wilson, former superintendent, Fulton County School System, Ga.
The interviews, open to the public, take place in the Carolyn Campbell Room in the Administrative Complex, 1320 West Main St., in Franklin. I learned last night that you have to go to the doors to the left of the main entrance for entry.
On Thursday, the school board will meet for a called session to select finalists for the position, who will be called back for another round of interviews.

Post 200: Breaking and exclusive news from the BrentWord home office

2009-08-03T22:41:00.009-05:00

This is my 200th BrentWord post! Hard to believe that's possible.

On April 13th, I started BrentWord in order to cover the Brentwood City Commission race and Brentwood in general (http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/04/new-day-dawns.html). Over the past four months, the blog has grown into something much more. But I've also experienced a growing frustration with it. The format is too limiting, and the pay ... well, suffice it to say the Leathers' last emergency fund is on its last leg.

So this seems like a most appropriate time and place to share what I hope is big news. My business partner, Kelly Gilfillan, and I have formed BrentWord Communications LLC and will launch Brentwood Home Page -- http://www.brentwoodhomepage.com/ -- "the go to place for everything Brentwood" in the weeks ahead.

I'm a professional reporter, editor and 27-year veteran of the newspaper business. Kelly has an impressive background in marketing and sales. Our goal? If you live or work in Brentwood, we want to be your home page. We want to be where you come to find news stories and pictures and party news about Brentwood. We'll have business news and obituaries and tomorrow's weather forecast. Sorry, no comics, but for at least a time after we launch, I expect there will be a few funnies to laugh about. Please laugh with us, not at us, as we learn the ways of the Web and grow our content.

Already you've gotten a taste for what we hope to include on a regular basis -- information about what's going on in your neighborhood. I toot my own horn that BrentWord was the news leader in coverage of the recent home burglaries that have taken place here and the subsequent police investigations and actions that led to the arrest of five suspects. Expect more of the same in the months ahead.

And remember Jill Burgin, whose column was long a favorite of Williamson A.M. readers every Sunday morning? She's going to be one of our featured columnists, along with a few others I'll wait to surprise you with.

But we can't do it alone. Brentwood Home Page will need input and information from every corner of the city, and every club, sports team, house of worship and school to truly make it a community "newspaper" --- without the paper, that is. If you have news or a calendar item to share, mail it to Brentwood Home Page, P.O. Box 3704, Brentwood, TN 37024-3704. Our new email system will be set up soon but in the meantime, feel free to email items of interest, story ideas and party pics to brentword@comcast.net. Just put Brentwood Home Page, or BHP as we've started calling ourselves, in the subject line. Don't forget to include your name and a daytime telephone number.

Remember I mentioned that almost-empty emergency fund? Brentwood Home Page is the perfect place to advertise your business, your sports team, your professional practice. For more information, email Kelly at Kelly@brentwoodhomepage.com.

So there it is. A scoop from the BrentWord home office. Stay tuned for details as they develop. And in the meantime, if you have news tips, ideas or comments, please don't hesitate to share them. Until the launch of Brentwood Home Page, BrentWord.blogspot.com, and Kelly's blog at www.outsidethebrentwoodbubble.blogspot.com are still alive and well.

Thanks for being part of this wonderful ride. We are truly blessed to live here.

Susan

Superintendent interviews start tonight

2009-08-03T17:06:00.003-05:00

The BrentWord home office is closing early today so I can race down to the Williamson County Schools administrative offices to hear the first two of five interviews taking place this week to help select our new Director of Schools.
Up first is Dr. David Heath of Brentwood, who has been serving as interim school superintendent since Dr. Rebecca Sharber resigned last spring. His interview begins at 6 p.m., followed by one at 8 with Dennis Dearden of Arizona, currently senior vice president for Partnership for Excellence.
The rest of the schedule is as follows:
Tuesday, Aug. 4:
6 p.m., Dr. Barry Carroll, superintendent, Limestone County Schools, Ala.
8 p.m., Michael Looney, superintendent, Butler County School District, Ala.
Wednesday, August 5
6 p.m., James Wilson, former superintendent, Fulton County School System, Ga.
The interviews, open to the public, will take place in the Carolyn Campbell Room in the Administrative Complex, 1320 West Main St., in Franklin.

For a more detailed look at the candidates, check out Maria Giordano's story from today's Williamson A.M. at http://tinyurl.com/BWsklsupes, and a previous BrentWord posting at http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/strong-contenders-for-wcs-director-post.html

Valet parking Tuesday, and down the road

2009-08-03T16:13:00.003-05:00

Red Mountain Bank makes it official

Red Mountain Bank, which opened two months ago at the corner of Franklin Road and Maryland Way, is ready to make it official. A ribbon cutting is planned Tuesday at 4 p.m. and everyone's invited.
Worried about parking? No need. Market President Rick Archer told me today they'll have valet parking and everything for the special event.
"We've had a great first two months," he said. "We've been blessed, especially in this economy. We're very happy."
He's not the only one.
The Birmingham-based bank performed a miracle at that very visible corner that makes me happy every time I drove by. It, along with other redos in the city's commercial district are slowly but surely making the area look brighter even without a lot of new development, or redevelopment as the case may be.
In addition to the ribbon cutting, the open house will feature hors oeuvres, Red Mountain Bank's signature coffee and visitors from its home office.

***

More valet on the way

Speaking of redos in Town Center, did you see Vicki Stout's feature on Judge Bean's Bar-B-Que in Sunday's Williamson A.M.? If not, here's the link: http://tinyurl.com/BWbean.

Speaking of valet parking, Aubrey Bean mentioned to me on Friday he hopes to offer valet parking soon to alleviate some of the parking and traffic flow headaches being experienced at the Brentwood Court shopping center off Church Street.

The addition of Beans to the mix of already successful established businesses (Sweet Pea's, Sugar Drop, Amy's Gifts) and new ones (Nashville Needleworks) is becoming an issue. The lot has not been improved in ages. Check back later for more on this topic.

Tale of the Tabby Cat, part II

2009-08-03T13:50:00.003-05:00

In case you've ever wondered, apparently a lot of tabby cats have gone missing in Brentwood over the past few months, including one belonging to City Commissioner Paul Webb and his lovely bride, Pat.

Several folks whose cats have gone astray had a bit of hope after seeing a posting for a found cat a few weeks ago. The sad news is that the kitty that decided to homestead on Betsy Davis' one acre in Meadowlake didn't turn out to be any of theirs.

"I appreciate everyone's effort to get this cat home -- I am surprised at how many people have lost gray tabbies and this one is not one of them!" Betsy shared with me this morning.

The cat is now residing at a new home outside of Brentwood.

Big week ahead...

2009-08-03T05:57:00.002-05:00

Good morning!
Believe it or not, August has arrived, with school, college football and tax-free shopping days ahead. What might be on your calendar this week? Interviews with the five finalists for Williamson County Director of Schools, tonight's planning commission meeting, the last performances of Into the Woods at Towne Centre Theatre or maybe a last-minute vacation before all the madness of real life starts to take over again.
Whatever, it promises to be a busy week here. Check back often for news and updates.

UT picnic RSVP deadline extended

2009-07-31T17:02:00.004-05:00

If you missed my earlier post on Sunday's send-off ice cream social planned for all incoming UT freshman, here it is again, with an update: The deadline to RSVP has been extended until Saturday, Aug. 1. So if you are, have or know a freshman headed to any of the University of Tennessee campuses next month, email Dawn Dietrich and plan to attend.

Summer send-off Sunday at Granny White Park
BRENTWOOD --The Williamson County University of Tennessee Alumni Chapter invites all incoming freshman from Williamson County who will be entering one of it UT campuses this fall and their families to attend a Summer Send-Off /Ice Cream Social at Granny White Park, 610 Granny White Pike in Brentwood, from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2.
“Come meet and greet with fellow incoming and current student/parents and enjoy ice cream provided by Edy's Food Service, Williamson County UT Alumni Chapter and the UT-Knoxville Parent's Association. All Williamson County UT alumni are welcome too! Door prizes and T-shirts will be provided,” Dawn D. Dietrich, who with her husband, Norman, chairs the Membership and Events Committee of the UT-Knoxville Parents Association.
Incoming UT students and their families get in free, while $5 covers UT alumni and friends. Reservation are requested by Aug. 1at dddntn@aol.com. Checks can be mailed to Dawn Dietrich, 2734 Rock Wall Road, Nashville, TN 37221-4372. Please make checks payable to "Williamson County UT Alumni Chapter."
To download a reservation form, visit the UT Alumni chapter website at http://alumni.tennessee.edu/eblasts/090802-williamson.html or contact Dawn for details. For information on the Williamson County UT Alumni Chapter, please visit http://www.williamsonvols.net/.

Oscar's worth trip across city line

2009-07-31T10:13:00.007-05:00

Did you see Ms. Cheap's Tennessean feature package on eating, shopping and doing in Williamson County earlier this week?
Though I tried to steer her toward several of Brentwood's best lunch spots, she insisted on checking out Oscar's Taco Shop in Franklin. I had to go with her, of course, in the name of research.
While I love Mazatlan, Chile Burrito and our other Mexican restaurants in town, I've got to tell you that Oscar's was worth the drive. Anyone who's ever lived or traveled in California will recognize the style.
The good news is that Oscar's going to open a Cool Springs location soon, though it won't be in "Brentwood's Cool Springs." We'll have to work with him on that one. The more local restaurants in Brentwood the better I say.
Speaking of Ms. Cheap and her piece (http://tinyurl.com/BWmscheap), I was happy to point out to her that two of my favorite Cool Springs' bargain stores are in Brentwood, not Franklin. Those would be Habitat for Humanity's Habitat ReStore on Bakers Bridge Road, right across from Costco (my all-time favorite) and Mallory Station Storage Consignment, located just across Seaboard Lane. Mallory Station also has a consignment store on Church Street E. just as you crest the hill past Wilson Pike.
Check them both out!
Her series unfortunately came out too late to include the best entertainment bargain in the county -- our Summer Concert Series at Crockett Park -- but our bike trails did make the grade.
What are your favorite cheap places to eat, shop and "do" in Brentwood? Send me an email or comment here. Would love to hear from you.

***

Speaking of bargains, don't forget that next weekend, Aug. 7-9, is tax-free weekend in Tennessee. You can find out what qualifies, what doesn't and other details at http://www.tn.gov/revenue/salestaxholiday/).

Wow, BHS wrestlers wrap up nationals

2009-07-31T10:05:00.003-05:00

A reader just shared this from Vicki Youngman's Brentwood High email blast:

"Blake Thomas and Cameron Croy earned All American honors at the Asics Junior National Freestyle Wrestling Tournament in Fargo, N.D. This is the second year Cameron has earned All American status. He finished seventh last year. This is Blake's first time competing in the tournament.
"The Cadet/Junior National Tournament is the premier high school tournament in the country and the largest in the world based on the number of overall participants. Blake started out with 58 wrestlers in his bracket. Cameron had 71 in his. To my knowledge, no other high school in Tennessee has ever had multiple All Americans in the same year at this tournament.
"Blake finished in eighth place at 112 pounds. Cameron finished in sixth place at 189 pounds. They were the only place winners from Tennessee."

Congratulations!

Two inches of rain and other news

2009-07-30T13:11:00.005-05:00

The rain gauge at the BrentWord home office shows just shy of two inches of rain in the last few days. Just thought you might care deeply.

Fair prospects next month
And if it's rainy, and then gets really, really hot, it must mean the Williamson County Fair is just around the corner. It is.
The now not-so-new summer extravaganza opens Aug. 7 for a nine-day run and includes something for everyone. There won't be a Brentwood booth this year I'm told but look for several of our commissioners, city and county, and other notables to be driving parking vans, golf carts and helping out in other ways.
Last year's Ms. Senior Williamson County Fair went on to when the national crown. The "singing granny" was from Nolensville. Surely we have a Brentwood contender this year?
Details about all of the events, the pageants, the midway and more can be found at http://www.williamsoncountyfair.org/.
I'm on the prowl for Brentwood-related fair news, stories and pictures. If you have some to share, please email me at brentword@comcast.net.

When a dog types, expect mistakes
Sally the Dog was so kind to mention Samantha, our 11-year-old golden-retriever-who's-not in Wednesday's Brentwood Journal. Sam has a torn ACL, a bad hip and is starting to feel her age.
Sally also sent condolences to Skip and Debbie Heibert of Brentwood, who lost their beloved dog Tinkie recently.
Unfortunately Skip became Steve in the newspaper. But I guess these things happen when a dog starts typing.

City's tourism site woven with intrigue
Speaking of the Brentwood Journal, two stories yesterday are connected but only I know the scoop. I'll let you know as soon as I have to sit down and type up the tale. In the meantime, check them out for yourself. You may remember reading about Nashville Needleworks here last month (http://tinyurl.com/NashNeedle). Great shop, so if you love needlework, check it out!
Here are links to the BJ stories:

*Sisters turn craft hobby into Brentwood business: http://tinyurl.com/BWnneedle
*Brentwood opts for in-house promotion: http://tinyurl.com/BWtourweb

Crime update
Chief Watson emailed this morning that there are no new developments in either the remaining unsolved home burglaries or recent vandalism cases. A $1000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the vandalism, which took place in Brenthaven, Brentwood Pointe and nearby areas earlier this week.
Hopefully the reward will lead to the apprenhension of those responsible -- and serve as a gentle reminder that a few minutes of "fun" can have very serious consequences.

WMC calendar features Brentwood's best

2009-07-29T15:34:00.006-05:00

At last week's Women in Business luncheon, I picked up the just-released Academic Calendar 2009-2010 published by Williamson Medical Center.
If you're not familiar with it, the annual publication includes important dates and numbers parents with students in Williamson County Schools, Franklin Special School District and most private schools in the county, need to know. In other words, it allows you to never be like me -- the one parent who never seems to know that school is out tomorrow, or for the next two weeks, or whenever.
But one of the best things about the free calendar is the artwork, all created by county art students. And this year's edition features works by several Brentwood artists.
They are Jennifer Grant of Ravenwood (artwork, right), Ryan Minnigan and Lauren Baker, Brentwood Academy; and Sarah Porter and Sarah Christie of Brentwood.
Congratulations to all.

Looks like our clunker's a real turkey

2009-07-29T14:56:00.009-05:00

Been out of the BrentWord home office most of the day, working in the field so to speak.
And it was from one field to another, with a dangerous crossing of Holly Tree Gap Road, that partner Kelly Gilfillan and I were stopped dead in our tracks -- well, make that her Pathfinder -- by seven wild turkeys.
Obviously they knew that "pedestrians" get the right of way, because there was no stopping them. But I have to wonder if all the stories I've heard about our native birds' intelligence isn't on the mark. No way did they look right, left, right before crossing.

***

It's just like the government to get me all excited about something then burst my bubble almost as fast.

For weeks we've been hearing and reading about Cash for Clunkers. Talk about music to my ears. Though we don't have money for a new car, even a new cheap car, if we could get $4500 for our clunker -- the boys' '91 Plymouth Acclaim -- I figured it might just be worth a trip down to my cousin's Chevrolet dealership in Columbia to try to take advantage of the limited-time offer.

The fact that the speedometer stopped at 156,000 miles about six years ago wasn't even a concern. From what I've read, they aren't going to resell them, but instead send them straight to the smash factory.

I started dreaming. Thomas could have the 2000 Nissan Sentra, Martin could keep the '04 Spectrum and Larry would have some new wheels with great gas mileage for his daily commute to Vanderbilt.

(Sorry Andrews Cadillac, Gary Force Acura and Lexus of Nashville -- as much as I like to shop Brentwood, I just don't think we can afford anything you sell this year. But when BrentWord takes off and starts bringing in the big bucks, let's talk hybrids!)

Anyway, my bubble burst when I couldn't find the Acclaim on the "approved" Clunker list. Knowing it must be an oversight, I looked up its gas mileage -- a combined MPG of 22, four over the limit.

Who knew? Our Clunker's a keeper. At least it has a new paint job and lots of personality.

And we don't have another car payment. I guess that's something to celebrate.

Joe Lassus update

2009-07-29T14:51:00.003-05:00

Friends,
Just received this update from City Manager Mike Walker concerning our planning director, Joe Lassus. Many of you will remember that Joe has been on medical leave following the discovery of a brain tumor this past spring.

"Things for Joe have turned for the worse in the past week. Apparently Joe was starting to have coordination problems again. They went to the doctor and went ahead with a MRI. It appears spinal fluid is draining into and building up in the area where the tumor was removed. This area of his brain is near where spinal fluid enters the brain. They still need to determine exactly where the fluid is coming from and if it the fluid can be removed and stopped from leaking into the former tumor area. Joe is going to see the neurologist and oncologist next week so hopefully, they will have a better handle on his condition and what to do. In the interim, they have put him back on steroids – I assume to relieve the pain and discomfort. As soon as I receive additional information, I’ll let you know."

As we've done before, let's keep Joe, his wife Naomi and their family in our prayers.

Fun things to know and share

2009-07-28T15:46:00.005-05:00

Feeling the need to take a break from crime news and such, here's some fun stuff to share:

Talk about book work: Last week, 41 different people volunteered a total of 303 3/4 hours to help make the summer Friends of the Brentwood Library Book Sale a success. Just how successful was it? Try $10,860 successful. What a great bunch of volunteers they are. Thanks too to the hundreds of people who donate books to make the quarterly sales possible, and those that come to buy.

Sweeney's loss, scout's gain: It wasn't quite a full house at the City Commission meeting last night. Commission Joe Sweeney took a rare night off, so the invocation he was down to give was offered instead by Commissioner Paul Webb. So who did that leave to lead the Pledge of Allegiance? Commissioner Webb was down for that one.
No concerns. Mayor Betsy Crossley tapped Boy Scout Andrew Wilson who was in the audience to lead the unusually large crowd. Wilson, a member of Troop 1 and a rising 8th grader at Brentwood Academy, did a fine job.

How about those chairs! Anyone who's visited the Municipal Center's board room in the past month or so couldn't have helped but notice that something was missing -- the permanent chairs. They have made their return, each recovered in royal blue upholstery fabric and accented in metal trim dressed up with a fresh coat of black paint.
The commissioners went on and on about how great they looked and how "green" they were, despite their eye-popping blue. The city saved a bundle of cash by refurbishing instead of replacing.
"We didn't throw the old ones away, we didn't take up any landfill space," Commissioner Regina Smithson noted.
All true. But after sitting in one of them for close to 90 minutes, I wish the city had invested a little more to have them restuffed.
At least they're easier on the eyes, if not the seat!

Chief Watson lauds his team, public

2009-07-28T14:11:00.007-05:00

4:28 p.m. update: This just posted at Tennessean.com: http://tinyurl.com/BWqbarrested

***

'We want to try to send a message,' and that message is: If you're crossing into Brentwood to commit a crime, you're 'making a big mistake.'
-- Police Chief Ricky Watson

Brentwood Police Chief Ricky Watson didn't get to bed until almost 2 a.m. Monday morning. He had it easy.
Not so his detectives. "They didn't turn in until about 4 a.m.," he told me Monday night in an interview at the Brentwood Municipal Center, headquarters of the 72-member department he oversees.
He and his staff worked into the wee hours Monday, work that resulted in the arrests of three individuals charged with an attempted burglary Sunday afternoon in Hillview Estates. During the investigation, items were discovered linking the suspects to more than 15 other burglaries in Brentwood, south Nashville and elsewhere in Williamson County. More charges are expected.
"We are very fortunate here," Watson said. "It took a real team effort, from dispatchers to officers to the detectives. All of them turned out."
It was the second day his staff turned out in force.
On Saturday, one of the most visible police actions in recent history took place near the busy intersection of Franklin Road and Old Hickory Boulevard. Both Brentwood and Metro police officers responded after a burglary in process call was made to 911. Two suspects were discovered in a nearby abandoned home.
Asked why so many units responded, Watson said "We're going to send everyone we can. We want to try to send a message." And that message is: If you're crossing into Brentwood to commit a crime, you're "making a big mistake."

It takes teamwork
Watson was quick to share credit with the Metro Police Department, Williamson County Sheriff's Department, the Tennessee Department of Safety and others who contributed to the investigations and responses over the weekend.
He also gave a nod to what he termed a "triangle of law enforcement," the police, local district attorneys and judges who work together to make sure justice is served.
The recent arrests do not mean Brentwood residents should get complacent, the chief said. He believes at least one other set of burglars remains on the prowl, and the number of car burglaries continues to rise.
"We need the eyes of the public to help us, help everyone be safe," he said.
Later Monday night, he told city commissioners that the public plays an important role in fighting crime. "We need that immediate call," he said if suspicious activity is witnessed. "Don't call two hours later."

New automated alert system
Parents with children in Williamson County Schools are familiar with getting automated telephone calls when schools close for inclement weather or if a PTO meeting is coming up, but west Brentwood residents were surprised Sunday afternoon to receive an automated warning call from the police department. It stated that three suspects were being sought in the area and gave descriptions of each.
It was the first time the department had utilized the city system, available when emergencies arise.
He told the commissioners that public response to the call was mostly positive, though a few people complained or wanted more information.
"One hundred percent of the bugs aren't worked out yet," he said. For instance, "one call went to one person in Nolensville." Residents who use Vonage or other alternative phone services may not have received the message.
Before stepping away from the podium, the chief shared one last thought to the board.
"I want to offer an apology for being in sandals and shorts with my pistol in hand," he said of his appearance at the abandoned home on Old Hickory. "I was close by and responded directly."
Given the arrests at the end of the day, not to mention the ones that followed Sunday, the board members just laughed. No one seemed to mind.

City offers $1000 reward

2009-07-28T11:21:00.005-05:00

Vandals strike in Brenthaven,
Brentwood Pointe neighborhoods

This just in from Police Chief Ricky Watson following a BrentWord query this morning on reported vandalism in Brenthaven:
We had approximately 30 mailboxes in the Brenthaven area and several cars windows broken in Brentwood Pointe. The City of Brentwood is going to offer a $1000 reward for information that results in the arrest and conviction of these suspects.

For those who are not familiar with the events, here is information I received this morning from several readers regarding the vandalism:
The Brenthaven entrance sign on Moores Lane at Covington was damaged, Jill Burgin emails. "It is intact but I can see a spot at the bottom where it looks like it was hit as they came in from Moores Lane. ... I can see cracks and damage from something like a bat."
And from reader Marie Ashburn, who shares this note from Dean Power:
"...There have been several mail boxes vandalized over the past few weeks around Maryland Lane and Covington Drive. ... On July 18 around 2:30 AM, I heard what sounded like teenage boys outside. By the time I got up I did not see anyone but the next morning I noticed our mail box and our neighbors mail boxes had been damaged. I did let Brentwood police know about this.
"Then this morning as I was leaving for work I noticed several mail boxes on Covington had been completely torn off their mounts.
"So parents if you have any young children out at night running around the neighborhood, remind them that destroying mail boxes is a serious offense."

If you have any information on these incidents, contact the Brentwood Police Department at 371-0160.

It's Tuesday morning and all is well

2009-07-28T08:41:00.004-05:00

Good morning Brentwood!

Coming later today is an exclusive interview with Brentwood Police Chief Ricky Watson on his department's work over the weekend that led to five arrests in our rash of home burglaries. But he tells me residents should not let their guards down. Check back to find out why not.

Also coming, a report from last night's City Commission meeting, where it was announced a jury ruled against the city in an eminent domain case, a decision that will cost the city some big bucks if it decides not to appeal.

And while you're waiting for these postings, I need you to be thinking about what you would like to see and read in an online "newspaper" for Brentwood, whether you are a resident or someone who works here. Big things are happening at the BrentWord home office but we need your input and ideas to make them the best they can be.
Perhaps you have story idea to share. Maybe you're involved with a religious, civic, sports or community group that needs its events and honors publicized. What is other local media not covering that you want to read about? What about business coverage? How would you like it presented and what most interests you?
Please send your thoughts to brentword@comcast.net or feel free to leave a comment below. Pass along this link to your friends, neighbors, co-workers, bosses and coaches for their input.
And stay tuned for more information in the weeks ahead.

Here are a few interesting links from today's Williamson A.M. and The Tennessean's Sports sections with Brentwood ties:

Dog fight isn't over in gated Brentwood community; Owners sue homeowners' board members who wanted pit bulls banned http://tinyurl.com/BWpitbulls
For scuba instructor, job is never-ending adventure
For past decade, Brentwood man has happily made a living underwater http://tinyurl.com/BWscuba
Ron Crawford faces a new challenge as he heads into the 2009 season at Brentwood. (Don't be fooled by the "Hillsboro" headline. Scroll down to find news on BHS team.) http://tinyurl.com/BWfootball

Home burglary suspects in custody

2009-07-27T15:53:00.005-05:00

Two days, two crimes, five arrests
The Brentwood Police Department has released details on two crimes, and subsequent arrests, from incidents occurring this past weekend.
Three arrests were made late Sunday night in connection to a burglary earlier in the day in west Brentwood's Hillview Estates subdivision. During their investigation, Brentwood investigators recovered a large quantity of stolen property believed taken during more than 15 recent home burglaries in Brentwood, Metro Nashville, and Williamson County.
Mitchell Henry Clemons, 18; Abanzer Tsegay, 18, and a 15-year-old juvenile, were arrested in South Nashville with the help of the Metro Police Department. All were charged with aggravated burglary.
Sunday's crime was reported at approximately 4:30 p.m. when Brentwood Police responded to a “burglary in progress” call at 1020 Manley Lane. Upon returning home, the victim observed three male subjects standing near a vehicle backed up to the home's garage. The subjects abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.
A rear door to the home had been forced open. Property taken from the residence was recovered in the vehicle left at the scene.
The Brentwood Police would like to acknowledge the assistance provided by the Metro Police Department K-9 unit and the Williamson County Sheriff’s Department K-9 unit. Both assisted in the initial search of the area.
On Saturday afternoon, again with the help of Metro Police, two arrests were made, one in connection with a home burglary earlier in the day on Brentwood Parkway. Taken into custody were Thomas Eugene Stoll, 38, and Joy Dawn Ennis, 46, both of Bowling Green, Ky.
The Brentwood Police Department charged Stoll with aggravated burglary and theft. Ennis was charged by the Metro Police Department on unrelated charges.
The two were arrested at 800 Old Hickory Blvd. after Brentwood investigators, the Metro Police Department Patrol, K-9 Division, and the Tennessee Department of Safety narrowed their search to the vacant house just west of the Shell station near the intersection of Franklin Road and Old Hickory Boulevard.
Saturday's crime, a "burglary in progress call," was reported just after noon, when the victim observed a male subject exit her residence and flee the scene on a bicycle. She also recognized that a bag he was carrying. A rear door had been forced open for entry.
Property taken from the residence, and the bicycle the subject was riding, was recovered, at the Old Hickory house.

Arrests, new ass't principal, lots more...

2009-07-27T11:57:00.001-05:00

It's going to be a busy day in the BrentWord home office :
Mayor Betsy Crossley tells me the three suspects west Brentwood residents were asked to be on the lookout for were arrested last night. Still awaiting confirmation from Brentwood Police, but Chief Ricky Watson says a press release is coming later today. I'll post it as soon as it arrives.

Barkley named BMS assistant principal
Williamson County Schools spokesperson Carol Birdsong has confirmed that Brandon Barkley has been appointed Brentwood Middle Schools' new assistant principal.
New principal, Bill Harlin, shared with BrentWord correspondent Jill Burgin last week that Barkley had been tapped. Barkley taught algebra and served as a basketball coach at Sunset Middle School.
"He is going to be a great addition to the Brentwood Middle School administrative team," Harlin told Burgin.
Birdsong told me she does not know of other new hires at the school yet.

Mark your calendar for school director interviews
Birdsong has also confirmed the interview dates for the five Williamson County Schools' superintendent finalists. The schedule is as follows:
Monday, August 3
6 p.m., Dr. David Heath, interim superintendent, Williamson County Schools.
8 p.m., Dennis Dearden, senior vice president, Partnership for Excellence, Ariz.
Tuesday, Aug. 4
6 p.m., Dr. Barry Carroll, superintendent, Limestone County Schools, Ala.
8 p.m., Michael Looney, superintendent, Butler County School District, Ala.
Wednesday, August 5
6 p.m., James Wilson, former superintendent, Fulton County School System, Ga.
The interviews, open to the public, will take place in the Carolyn Campbell Room in the Administrative Complex, 1320 West Main St.,in Franklin.
For background on all of the candidates, please see my previous post at: www.tinyurl.com/BWsupepics.

Need a laptop cheap? On agenda at tonight's City Commission meeting
The City Commission meets at 7 p.m. tonight and among the items on the agenda are approval of the sale of surplus city equipment. The Brentwood Police Department lists many items, including a slew of laptop computers. But not all of them, hopefully, will be up for bid to folks like you and me.
The department is recommending that "14 of the 33 lap-top computers proposed for disposal be transferred to the Ashland City Police Department. At the last auction in 2008, the City received between $10-$30 for each lap-top computer, therefore, the City will forgo between $140-$420 in potential revenue from this donation."
That's OK. The department has often sold or donated equipment it is replacing or upgrading to smaller departments with much smaller budgets. It's a win-win for public safety everywhere.
But back to the agenda item, the list of surplus equipment is interesting. You can see it at http://tinyurl.com/BWsurplus and learn more about the resolution to authorize the sale at the city's website, www.Brentwood-tn.org. Just click on the City Commission meeting link from the home page.
And while you're there, check out some of the other, not-so-fun items on the agenda too. Might just intrigue you enough to show up. Now that's a concept!

Lots more to share, so check back often.
In the meantime, if you missed any of last week's or the weekend postings, just scroll down. You'll find a story on Demetria Kalodimas, the most recent city crime report, my thoughts on Harry Potter and why you should go see it, or any movie at Thoroughbred 20 in Cool Springs, on Tuesdays.

Do you have news to share? Email me at brentword@comcast.net.

Automated call warns west BW residents

2009-07-26T21:56:00.004-05:00

Police searching for three men
An update from earlier post this afternoon on police activity in and around the west Brentwood neighborhood of Highland View and nearby roads and subdivisions.

City residents who live near Brentwood's western border received automated phone notifications Sunday evening, informing them of police activity and safety concerns in the area.
"Area residents be on the lookout for three burglary suspects last seen on Manley Lane around 4:30. All three fled on foot from scene. Described as one black male wearing red T-shirt, one Asian male with two diamond stud earrings, one white male. All are young and all are wearing shorts and tennis shoes. If you see strangers in your neighborhood call the Brentwood Police Department at 371-0160.
Mayor Betsy Crossley was one of the residents who got the recorded message. "I locked my doors, but felt safer for getting the warning. Way to go BPD!" she wrote me in an email Sunday night.
Local homeowners associations also responded. Holly Tree Farms HOA president Matt Smith sent the following email to neighbors about 9 p.m. Sunday night:
"HTF Neighbors,
"This evening the Brentwood police department has asked several of our neighbors to please be on the lookout for 3 suspects they are searching for in the west Brentwood area. ... The police have specifically asked us to notify them by dialing 911 if these men are seen. PLEASE DO NOT TRY AND CONFRONT THEM ON YOUR OWN. This is a police matter and should be handled by dialing 911.
"Per police description: the three men in question are thought to be wearing shorts, one is Caucasian, one Asian with diamond stud earrings and one African-American wearing a red T-shirt and black wire glasses.
"I don't want to be alarmist, but thought it was appropriate that we all be aware. The Brentwood Police can be reached at 615-371-0160 if you need more information or clarification. "
I have contacted the Brentwood Police Department for an update and will report as soon as I know more. In the meantime, please lock your doors and be aware and familiar with your surroundings. As noted above, if you see or hear anything suspicious or have information that could help the investigation call 911 if you feel you are in immediate danger or 371-0160 to talk directly to a police dispatcher who can direct your call to the appropriate person.

For information on recent home burglaries, please see my earlier post. Expect more details on Monday.

Police reportedly called to Highland View

2009-07-26T18:03:00.004-05:00

Brentwood Police have confirmed something going on Sunday afternoon in or near the Highland View neighborhood off Murray Lane but report that the incident did not involve a weapon.
As details are released about exactly what happened there, and for updates on Saturday's arrest of suspects in a Wilson Pike home burglary, check back tonight or Monday as information becomes available.
If you have any details on these incidents, please email me at brentword@comcast.net.

BREAKING NEWS: Burglary suspects apprehended

2009-07-25T17:09:00.003-05:00

A large police presence at a vacant home behind the Shell Station at the corner of Old Hickory Boulevard and Franklin Road has ended in the apprehension of suspects in a home burglary, Capt. Jeff Hughes of the Brentwood Police Department has just confirmed. The burglary was reported on Wilson Pike.
The investigation is continuing.
At this point it is not know whether or not these suspects are connected to the rash of home burglaries reported in Brentwood and surrounding areas in recent weeks.
Check back to learn more as authorities release more details.

Past BrentWord stories of related interest:
Latest city crime report, posted Friday: http://tinyurl.com/BWcrmreport
Police notice on home burglaries: http://tinyurl.com/BWburglars

Good news: Crime light this week

2009-07-24T15:05:00.004-05:00

After a series of recent residential burglaries and vandalism reports, this week's Brentwood crime report only lists one residential attempted burglarly and luckily for the Plantation Drive resident, nothing was taken.
In fact, the entire report, released this afternoon by Capt. Jeff Hughes, was light -- which is good news to report.
In general thefts, a GPS device and two flash drives were taken Monday from a room at the Residence Inn in Maryland Farms but the property was returned. A couple are suspected of shoplifting Coca-Colas from the Moore's Lane Mapco on Monday; and a utility trailer was taken from a Maryland Farms business on Harpeth Drive between Monday and Tuesday.
Two incidences of vandalism were investigated. The first involved a spray-painted stop sign on Gracelawn Drive in Hillview Estates; the second was a keyed vehicle on Heritage Drive in Brent Meade sometime on Wednesday.
A driver's side window was broken and a laptop, satellite radio and GPS were taken from a car in the Synergy Complex off Franklin Road on Thursday.
If you have information on any of these crimes, please contact the Brentwood Police Department at 371-0160.

Next RAD course starts Aug. 3
Have a friend or daughter headed off to college next month? Consider signing her and her friends up for the Brentwood Police Department's next Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) class which begins in early August.
The three-night, nine-hour course is free for women ages 13 and over. It runs 6-9 p.m. Aug. 3-6 at Safety Center East, 1300 Sunset Road (just across from the Governor's Club).
To register or for further information, call Officer Mark Wood at 615-371-2267 or e-mail woodm@brentwood-tn.org

Free lunch at BofA drive thru!

2009-07-24T13:59:00.003-05:00

Who says there's no free lunch? I found one today at Bank of America's drive thru. And you can too if you have a check to cash, a deposit to make, or are just cheap enough to stop by the Franklin Road branch without even having an account there.
Turns out it's Customer Appreciation Day. Branch manager John Miller (who looks way too young to be in that position) is manning the Weber where hot dogs by the dozen are being grilled. Ken Larson, the bank's senior personal banker, is living up to his position by customizing the dogs to fit indvidual tastes (that would be ketchup and relish, in my case).
They also have free drinks. No chips, but hey, we're in a recession.
Thanks guys, you made my day!

TGIF Brentwood!

2009-07-24T11:02:00.003-05:00

Wow, what a beautiful day to start out the weekend. In fact, it's so beautiful there won't be much fresh posting today unless I get the weekly crime report. But I do want to share a few links and reminders about fun things to do this weekend.

A toast to the Governors Club
Here's a shout out to The Governors Club golf course, which as recognized by The Tennessean at last night's Toast of Music City Awards as one of the favorites in Middle Tennessee. The Governors Club placed third, just behind Vanderbilt Legends Club (first) and Hermitage Golf Course.
At first I was a little upset that Brentwood didn't have more winners, but then again, we don't really have many (if any) honkey-tonks, art galleries, music venues or dance clubs. But IF we had a Town Center/Mole Festival, we could at least compete in the festival category. No doubt it will someday knock the CMA Music Festival or at least the East Nashville Tomato Festival off the winners' podium..
We do, however, have parks, places to see a play (especially if you count our high schools!), local actors/actresses and local bands.
I foresee a BrentWord Readers' Favorites competition in our future.

Interesting stories in this morning's Williamson A.M. in case you haven't seen it include:

Update on the Wooded Rapist case: http://tinyurl.com/BWwooded
'Pace and place guide Annandale forward': http://tinyurl.com/BWannan

A few recent BrentWord posts that you may have missed, and gentle reminders about some great things to do this weekend and early next:

If you haven't seen Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince yet, consider waiting until Tuesday. Why? Find out athttp://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/popcorn-and-drink-for-1-each-really.html.
Into the Woods continues at Towne Centre Theatre. I'm hearing good reviews and hope to catch it myself this weekend. www.townecentretheatre.com
Have some time on your hands? Read up on the new set of finalists for the Williamson County Director of Schools position. http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/strong-contenders-for-wcs-director-post.html

Plus, scroll down to learn more about Channel 4's Demetria Kalodimas; this weekend's Friends of the BW Library book sale (half-price on Saturday!); and Brentwood's new Firefighter of the Year.

Regional bike trail study under way

2009-07-23T17:26:00.003-05:00

July 28 meeting planned in Franklin
Those interested in and concerned about our bike trails might want to mark a July 28 meeting at the Williamson County Library in Franklin on their calendars. Found this posted on the city’s website:

The Nashville Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will host a series of public meetings between July 27 and July 30 to report on the development of a Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Study: A Strategic Vision for Walking and Bicycling in the Greater Nashville Region.

This study relies on information gathered and priorities identified at community meetings held earlier this year and will incorporate input from the upcoming public meetings. After a presentation on the progress of the MPO report, attendees at the July meetings will have the opportunity to ask questions and to provide feedback on prioritizing needs for future bicycle and pedestrian projects.

The meeting in Williamson County is scheduled as follows: Tuesday, July 28 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave, Franklin, 37064.

The Nashville Area MPO is the regional planning organization federally established to carryout transportation planning within the greater Nashville region. The MPO policy board is comprised of local elected Mayors and County Executives and guides federal and state funding of transportation projects such as roads, bridges, sidewalks and bikeways, and transit within the greater Nashville region.

Additional information on the project can be found by logging on to the MPO website.

Stop the presses: Book sale back to normal

2009-07-23T16:09:00.005-05:00

Library expansion's pace allows Friends
to fill two rooms ahead of schedule
You never know what treasures you'll find at the library, especially when the quarterly Friends of the Brentwood Library book sale rolls around.
Today I walked out with Page One: Major Events 1920-1975 as Presented in The New York Times and Virginia, The New Dominion, a history from 1607 to the present by Virginius Dabney. Got both for $5.
The book of front pages was a happy find, and a sad reminder of what we'll lose if and when newspapers as we know them disappear. Newspapers are such tangible, permanent records of everything from moon walks to chicken dinners and obituaries. The Times' June 11, 1940 page told the world that ITALY AT WAR, READY TO ATTACK, STAB IN BACK, SAYS ROOSEVELT, GOVERNMENT HAS LEFT PARIS. And on November 23, 1963, KENNEDY IS KILLED BY SNIPER AS HE RIDES IN CAR IN DALLAS; JOHNSON'S SWORN IN ON PLANE.
But enough editorializing, let's get back to the book sale.
By Thursday noon, the Friends had made about $5000, said sale guru Manny Buzzell as he pointed out the new and improved children's book display. Some are going for as little as 10 cents each.
A pleasant surprise was seeing that the sale again filled both of the library's multi-purpose rooms. Manny told me the volunteers were surprised too. They found out Monday that the library expansion's construction was far enough along that they could open the partition and spread out once again. They expected to be cramped into one room for this sale before getting back to normal this fall.
If you haven't been by yet, the sale continues today until 7 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday -- when everything is half-price! -- 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Demetria's next career? Comedienne

2009-07-23T14:49:00.006-05:00

Emmy-winning anchor entertains and informs
I didn't plan to report on today's Women in Business luncheon. I was using it as an excuse to put on a dress and get out of the BrentWord home office for a few hours.
But as soon as the guest speaker, Channel 4 anchor Demetria Kalodimos, started talking, I pulled out a pen, folded the flyer announcing "Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber Day at Costco" and started writing.
More than 100 businesswomen turned out to hear Kalodimos' presentation at the Fifty Forward Martin Center and I doubt if anyone went home disappointed. How could they when she shared her life history with one liners that entertained as well as informed.
The Illinois Wesleyan grad attended college on a flute scholarship and at one point dreamed of leading an orchestra. When she started working at the university's radio station, however, she found a new love.
"My mother would say I fell in love with the sound of my own voice," she quipped.
Of her early years in broadcast news, she talked about working at a small station where the daily Trading Post feature was as important as the daily news. After earning a graduate degree in journalism, she had job offers from WSMV here and from a new upstart network called CNN in Atlanta. She chose Nashville, she said, because she was convinced that CNN "will never go anywhere."
A fun fact to know and tell is that she keeps her Illinois teaching credential up to date -- a Plan B in case this broadcasting gig doesn't pan out. And her professional name hasn't always been Kalodimos.
At her first TV job, she became "Demetria Kay" much to her chagrin. Apparently the name her grandfather brought with him from Greece was a bit much for the tiny station in the heartland.
"Is that stupid or what?" she asked the crowd.
Channel 4 turned out to be a bit more progressive about Kalodimos. "They said 'We like that name. You can use it if you want to.'" And she has for all but that one small blip of time .
Demetria shared that the past year had been a tough one both personally and professionally. Her dad died last year, and more recently, her longtime co-anchor Dan Miller. Both her mother and sister received breast cancer diagnoses. And yet she smiled her way through her address, shared two favorite news stories via DVD and told those attending that she still loves what she does.
Someone asked if she'd had job offers elsewhere over the years. She said yes, including one with a major network. But in the end, Nashville's kept her here.
"What's not to love about this area?"

***

On a positive business note, Reliant Bank's marketing director, Marion Ingram, announced at the meeting that the bank's new Maryland Farms branch will open August 3. With this and other expansions, Reliant has made 14 new hires in recent months, going against the trend.

A salute to 'Salute' finalists

2009-07-22T20:41:00.004-05:00

The Center for Nonprofit Management has announced finalists for its 2009 Salute to Excellence Awards -- the "Academy Awards" for the nonprofit world of Middle Tennessee -- and I shamelessly want to offer this shout out to two of the nominees.

It's with great pleasure I share that Brentwood resident Andrea Overby, right, and my wonderful (even if Nashville-based) sister-in-law Linda Leathers, have both been nominated for their work with The Next Door.

I don't believe any of the other nominees or organizations are from Brentwood, but if you know otherwise, please let me know so I can toot their horns as well.

Learn more about Andrea, Linda and The Next Door at http://tinyurl.com/BWlinda.

Lost & Found: Is this tabby yours?

2009-07-22T19:53:00.003-05:00

This beautiful tabby cat was found in the Meadowlake neighborhood. Might he (she?) be yours? If you're missing one, email me at brentword@comcast.net and I'll get you in touch with the rescuer.

Strong contenders for WCS director post

2009-07-22T15:27:00.010-05:00

And then there were five.
The Williamson County School board of education will interview five new Director of Schools candidates early next month.
On Monday, search firm Ray & Associates presented the five finalists in its second round of national search to the board. Two of the finalists have Williamson County connections – Dr. David Heath, now serving as interim superintendent, and James Wilson, former superintendent of the Fulton County School System in Atlanta who previously spent 10 months here as the first principal of Centennial High School.

The other finalists are Dr. Barry Carroll, superintendent, Limestone County, Ala.; Dennis Deardon, former superintendent of Marana County, Ariz.; and Michael Looney, superintendent, Butler County School District, Ala.
School board member Terry Leve, who represents District 6 which includes east Brentwood, shares this information on each candidate:

Barry Carroll, Ed.D

Carroll received his B.S. from Alabama A&M, and two M.A. degrees and his Ed.D. from the University of Alabama. He has been superintendent of Limestone County Schools, headquartered in Athens, Ala., for the last eight years. While his contract was recently extended through 2012, it is terminable on 30 days notice.
Limestone, with 8,735 students and an $80 million annual operating budget, has averaged about 1.5% annual growth in enrollment during Carroll’s tenure.
Carroll holds himself out as one who is data-driven, and believes in order to narrow an academic achievement gap there must be a "change of mindset concerning expectations.
Carroll believes extra-curricular and co-curricular activities are vital for students. He also believes that individualized learning plans will provide the necessary data and information to help teachers understand individual students’ needs.
Prior to Limestone, Carroll spent 10 years in Huntsville Public Schools, a district of 23,000 students, the last four as Director of Secondary Education and Professional Development. He was named the 2006 Alabama Superintendent of the Year, and in 1996 as Alabama's Most Outstanding Secondary Principal. A former health teacher and coach, he has been a public educator since 1981.
He lists as his references the Alabama State Superintendent, the past President of the American Association of School Administrators, the Executive Director of Alabama School Superintendents, the Superintendent of Huntsville City Schools, as well as other county superintendents and current school board members.

Dennis Deardon
Deardon received his B.A from Simpson College and his M.S from Drake University, both in Iowa. As senior vice president for the Partnership of Excellence, his responsibilities include mentoring superintendents across the nation and helping school districts implement strategic plans.
Previously, Deardon spent three years as the superintendent of Marana Unified School District in Arizona, a suburb of Tucson. Marana has 13,000 students and a $78 million annual operating budget Deardon states that when he arrived at Marana, the district had gone through several years of turmoil. In a two-year period, he led the alignment of all district improvement efforts, including the implementation of the following initiatives: full-day kindergarten, professional learning communities, elementary school instructional coaches, essential learning standards, and formative and summative assessments based on aligned state standards. Nine of the district's schools were either rated Arizona A+ schools (meaning they ranked in the top 3 percent of the state) or were awarded with National Blue Ribbon of Excellence status.
Before Marana, Deardon spent two years as an assistant superintendent in Fairfax County (Va.) public schools, a district with more than 166,000 students.
A public educator since 1974, he has been a principal, an assistant principal, a social studies teacher, a special education teacher and a coach. wards include being named the national Principal of the Year in 2000, and as a finalist for Teacher of the Year in Colorado in 1990.
His references include the Executive Director of the American Association of School Administrators, the Director of Schools of Fairfax County Public Schools, as well as other county superintendents and Marana school board members.

David Heath, Ed.D

Heath received his B.S. and M.S. from University of Tennessee, Martin. He earned his Ed.D. from the University of Southern California. For the past six months he has served Williamson County’s interim Director of Schools, a position he also held for seven months in 2004.
Williamson County Schools has more than 30,000 students and an annual operating budget in excess of $200 million. Heath spent the last six years as deputy superintendent at WCS.
He considers keeping a sense of urgency and better accountability to be the greatest challenges and obstacles in narrowing the district’s achievement gap. He describes a good board-director relationship as one where "the board is the 'what,' and the director of schools is the 'how.'" He writes that "[t]oo often schools have exerted independence in individual directions that have focused dollars and energies away from the primary objectives and vision of the district."
As deputy superintendent, Heath has coordinated budget preparations for the transportation, maintenance, facilities and operations, human resources and cafeteria departments; gas led rezoning plans; and served as hearing officer for student disciplinary hearings.
Following a six-year tenure as principal at Brentwood High School, Heath served as director of the Assessment Center for the Department of Defense Dependents Schools in the Germany Region. He has also been a high school principal, junior high school principal, assistant principal and teacher in Tennessee, Germany, Korea and Japan.
In 1998, he was named the Tennessee Secondary Principal of the Year. His references include two former WCS superintendents, Drs. Terry Grier and Dallas Johnson, the Chairman of the Weakley County Board of Education, the Dean of Fine Arts and Media at the University of Colorado, Denver, and County Mayor Rogers Anderson.

Michael Looney

A doctoral candidate at the University of Alabama, Looney earned his B.S. and M.S. from Jacksonville State University in Alabama and his Ed.S. from the University of Alabama. He is superintendent of Butler County School District, headquartered in Greenville, Ala, a position he has held for four years.
Butler has 3,500 students and a $31 million annual operating budget.
In answer to the question of his experience in working with students and parents in high-achieving school environments, Looney cites his development of a K-12 magnet school for "high-end learners." His application also speaks to the partnerships he has forged with city and county government officials, and their cooperation in funding the largest school construction campaign in the county's history: nine separate projects – projects completed on time and within or under established budgets. He has also developed career academies and a comprehensive, tiered acceleration policy for high-achieving students. He also led efforts that resulted in his district being awarded with State Department of Education funds in excess of $2 million to design Alabama's first "pay for performance" plan.
Prior to Butler, Looney served two districts as an assistant superintendent for Montgomery (Ala.) Public Schools and Calhoun County Schools, located in Anniston, Ala. In Montgomery, a district with 61 schools and 31,000 students, he was responsible for evaluating, coordinating and administering curricula for all K-12 programs. He has also been a principal, assistant principal and elementary school teacher.
Prior to education, he served for seven years in the United States Marine Corps, where he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant.
His references include Alabama's State Superintendent, the Mayor of Greenville, Ala., newspaper editors and reporters, the former president of the Board of Education for Montgomery County Public Schools, as well as current board members.

James Wilson

Wilson earned his B.S. from Tennessee Tech, his M.A. from West Georgia College, and his Ed.S. from Jacksonville State University in Alabama. Last year. Wilson became president of Education Planners, a business management firm serving school districts across the Southeast. For the three years before that, Wilson served as superintendent of Fulton County (Ga.) Schools, a district with nearly 90,000 students and a $940 million operating budget.
Wilson considers maintaining a focus "on kids and not statistics" as one of the greatest challenges and obstacles to closing the achievement gap among students. In 2007, eight Fulton County High Schools ranked among Georgia’s top 11 schools for the highest average SAT scores.
Prior to his time in Fulton County, Wilson spent 26 years in the Cobb County (Ga.) School District, where he started as a middle school teacher. His tenure later included serving as Community School Director, assistant high school principal, middle school principal, high school principal, executive director of high school operations, assistant superintendent of human resources, deputy superintendent, interim superintendent and chief operations officer.
During a short break from Cobb, Wilson spent 10 months with Williamson County Schools when he was hired to be Centennial High School's first principal. He was named at the commencement of the school’s construction project, and was responsible for hiring the staff, setting curriculum and purchasing furniture and equipment. The summer before CHS opened its doors, Cobb County enticed him back by offering him the position of executive director of high school operations, which made him responsible for directing the supervision of 13 high schools.
He now serves on U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson's Education Committee and has presented at three different national conferences on "Utilizing Technology in the Classroom." His references include the Board Chair of Fulton County Schools, the Cobb County Superintendent, and other business and education leaders, including from the Georgia School Board Association.

Chamber announces 2010 Leadership class

2009-07-22T15:14:00.003-05:00

This just in from BrentWord news services (OK, make that Lynn Tucker at the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber). I learned last week I had been selected to participate but only learned through this release who my classmates will be. I consider myself lucky to be included!

Participation, leadership key in selection process
BRENTWOOD -- Fifteen Brentwood leaders have been selected for the Leadership Brentwood Class of 2010. These participants represent a cross-section of the community and were selected on the basis of their past and present leadership within the community.
The class members are: Maurilio Amorim, president/owner, The A Group; Steve Dycus, senior marketing coordinator, Williamson Medical Center; David Fox, vice president, customer and technical Support, Passport Health Communications; Rod Freeman, manager/owner, Rocking R Companies; David Green, owner, David Green Communications; Mike Knotts, district director, U.S. Congressman Marsha Blackburn; Susan Leathers, owner/publisher, BrentWord Communications; Greg Lemon, president, Axis Accounting Systems; Dr. Dan McHugh, physician, Premier Orthopaedics; Kelli Nelson, director, HCA, Inc.; Angela Nordstrom, regional director, NIC, Inc.; Vicki Smith, senior manager, Global Communications, Nissan North America, Inc.; Anna Stotts, account manager, business development, Century II; Amy Tanksley, owner, Uncle Classic Barbershop; Liz Wilson, owner, Monarch Advisory Group.
“While their backgrounds are diverse, these 15 individuals clearly share a commonality of leadership experience that is representative of the outstanding quality of all of this year’s applicants. Their selection is a tribute to our alumni and the commitment they have made to the continued excellence of the Leadership Brentwood program,” said Chris Bosen, chair of the Steering Board.
“Two of the main objectives of Leadership Brentwood, established 20 years ago, are to foster an attitude of increased participation in the community and to promote a free exchange of ideas and concerns among the various segments of Brentwood. This class, like those before them, will be challenged both individually and as a team to embody those goals for the long-term benefit of the Brentwood community in the coming year and beyond.”
Leadership Brentwood, a program administered by the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber of Commerce to identify and educate present and future leaders and integrate them into the Brentwood community, is entering its 20th year with the announcement of the Class of 2010. The program runs from August to March and consists of monthly one-day itineraries featuring panel discussions, visits to local areas of interest, question and answer sessions, and small group projects. Participants are given opportunities to enhance their own leadership skills, learn useful strategies for teamwork, and discover ways to give back to the Brentwood community.
For additional information, visit www.LeadershipBrentwood.org.

Skinny jeans dangerous for you

2009-07-22T08:11:00.003-05:00

Good morning Brentwood!
Just saw on the Today show that skinny jeans can be dangerous for you, constricting nerves and such. Of course, I don't have to worry about that. Can't wait for tomorrow's report on plus-size ones, however. Now that's something I care deeply about ...

As I get ready for the day, want to share some links for you in case you haven't seen today's Brentwood Journal:

Half-done homes in trouble: http://tinyurl.com/BWabandon
Economy can't keep youth football down (story on the Blaze): http://tinyurl.com/BWblaze

Finally, Jill Burgin, one of Brentwood's best writers, responded to my posting about Tuesday's Dear Abby column on the challenges of living in an affluent community. It's something I've struggled with for years but never have been able to put it on paper.
Jill explains it as only she can: Clearly and to the point. Here it is, in case you missed it:

I have been on both ends of the spectrum, and living in an affluent community involves more than just whose house is bigger and who's a snob or not.
If you don't "have" as much as your friends, it limits how much you, your friends, your kids and their friends can socialize together. Hitting restaurants four times a week or attending fundraiser luncheons that are $50 or $100 a plate may be out of the question. So are $50 concert tickets and $75 hockey tickets. Girls weekends in Atlanta or spring break trips to the Caribbean aren't just a few phone calls away. If you're watching your budget, $3,000 school trips to Europe are not a given. Neither is Disney twice a year. So shared experiences with your "richer" friends can be few and far between.
Sure, you can do free stuff together and bond through a book group or Bible study. Yes, volunteering at a soup kitchen reminds you of your own blessings. But it doesn't change the fact that a limited budget means you have to limit yourself, even when it seems others never have to, and maintain the constant, exhausting gut check you go through whenever your friend or your kid's friend gets something or goes somewhere new.

Do you have news to share? Thoughts on recent posts, story ideas? Please let me know at brentword@comcast.net.

New York Times and Brentwood connections....

2009-07-21T20:31:00.004-05:00

Love me some Facebook. How else would I know that one of Brentwood's most talented young singer-songwriters, Dylan Taylor, caught the interest of a New York Times reporter in the audience at 12th & Porter the other night?

Not familiar with Dylan? You can hear her at http://www.myspace.com/taylorbraunmusic.

And heard last week about another upcoming Times' piece with a Brentwood connection.

Dr. Jeff Wilson, a pastor on staff at Brentwood United Methodist, is uncle to Tandy Wilson, one of the nation's hottest chefs. The younger Wilson (sorry Jeff) co-owns and is the chef at The City House restaurant in downtown Nashville's Germantown section. He's already a James Beard award semi-finalist and generating a lot of buzz in foodie circles.

Jeff told me the Times sent a crew down to interview Tandy for a future piece. I'll keep my eye out for it and let you know when it runs.

Have you been in the Times lately? If so, let me know. Always looking for those Brentwood connections, wherever they show up!

Popcorn and drink for $1 each! Really!

2009-07-21T17:15:00.004-05:00

Latest 'Harry' film not for under-6 crowd
So, it's like this. I was working away here at the home office when one eye started to twitch and the other started to do other funky things. I took it as a sign I needed to leave the computer screen and do something else.
So I borrowed a few kids (and their mother) and went to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince at Thoroughbred 20 in Cool Springs. The 1:40 p.m. matinee saved some cash but the big surprise came at the snack bar, where on Tuesday's the Carmike chain is offering its own economic stimulus package -- personal-sized bags of popcorn and small soft drinks for $1 each.
Now this is a stimulus incentive I can get behind. Really hungry? Splurge and get TWO bags. You still come out ahead!
As for the movie, I've read all the books and seen all the films so was anxious to add this to the collection, especially with all the good reviews it's received. Sadly, I came away a bit disappointed and antsy. I think a review of the book beforehand would have helped me enjoy it a bit better. Or maybe it's just that Harry is the only one who hasn't seemed to age. Poor Daniel Radcliffe is vertically challenged. He can't help it I know, but it's too bad he's not at least as tall as his new love Ginny Weasley.
A word to the wise, however. There were lots of young children, say age 5 and under, in today's matinee. And this is not the movie for them. Really. It's long, a little dark and I really just doubt any of them really enjoyed it. The little girl in front of me definitely didn't; she and her grandmother took several side trips during the 2-hour, 33-minute film.
On a positive note, the pre-show advertisement featuring race-car driver Danica Patrick is almost worth the admission price itself. To her pit crew: I know just how you feel about those panties that ride up and bad tan lines. But you're looking marvelous, boys. Just marvelous.
What was she selling? I can't remember. But the short piece was hilarious.

Five new finalists for WCS superintendent

2009-07-21T09:33:00.006-05:00

Position, not Heath, previously banned from applying
Five new finalists have emerged in the search for a new Williamson County Schools superintendent. They include: Barry Carroll of Athens, Ala.; Dennis Dearden of Oro Valley, Ariz.; David Heath of Brentwood; Mike Looney of Greenville, Ala.; and James Wilson of Atlanta. Two have Williamson County ties.
Heath currently serves as interim superintendent. Wilson has previously worked for the district and oversaw Centennial High School's construction.
I was out of town and could not attend Monday night's called board meeting, but have emailed Brentwood school board reps Pat Anderson (board chair), Susan Graham and Terry Leve for comments. Williamson A.M. education reporter Maria Giordano has posted a short story online with details, http://tinyurl.com/WCsklbrd.
After the July 13 Brentwood City Commission meeting, Graham and Anderson also clarified for me a misunderstanding by some concerning Heath's application. It has been reported that Heath personally was barred from applying for the job during the search's first round. In truth, the board decided -- before Heath was named interim superintendent -- that whomever held that position could not apply. There were concerns that an internal candidate would be perceived as being preferred over outside ones, which could dissuade others from applying.
On May 11, after rejecting the first two finalists brought forward by the search firm Ray and Associates, the board voted to allow the long-time Williamson County educator to apply along with other candidates during a second search.

Sports links and a Dear Abby plug

2009-07-21T09:11:00.004-05:00

During a quick perusal of Williamson A.M. this morning, I discovered two sports stories by Chip Cirillo I thought Ravenwood parents and students might like to read in case you missed the printed version. I'd also like to take this opportunity to say so long to Chip, who is leaving the Williamson County sports beat to return to The Tennessean's home office on Broadway in Nashville.
Chip's sports feature writing brought a wonderful dimension to Williamson County sports coverage and will be missed. The good news is that he will be covering prep sports so I'm sure we'll be seeing Brentwood datelines a lot when he covers Brentwood and Ravenwood high schools along with Brentwood Academy and the other private schools that draw student athletes from our city.

In the meantime, here are Chip's stories today:

Manning turns corner; Ravenwood junior wins state amateur: http://tinyurl.com/BWManning
Ex-Raptors coach takes Florida job: http://tinyurl.com/BWRaptor

Dear Abby, Dear Abby I have no complaints....
John Prine is my all-time favorite singer-songwriter bar none. Sometimes I wonder what he would write about life in Brentwood. We'll have to wait and see. But in the meantime, Dear Abby herself has an interesting series of letters today, page 5D of The Tennessean's Life section, that provide a perfect reflection of our life in the bubble.
The topic, living in affluent communities, really hits home. This is a constant source of discussion among my friends, my Parents of Teens Sunday School class, and my family.
Check it out. Would love to know what you think. Don't have the paper? I also found it online at http://www.uexpress.com/dearabby/

Busy week ahead in Brentwood

2009-07-21T00:48:00.008-05:00

Who has time for the mid-summer doldrums when there is so much to see and do? Here are just a few suggestions to help fill your week. If you know of more, please let me know!

The Friends of the Brentwood Library's quarterly book sale opens Wednesday and runs through Saturday at the library. As mentioned in an earlier post, science fiction fans will be happy to know one patron made a huge donation that will be available. This is also a great opportunity for students to find last-minute required Summer Reading books and books for next fall's literature classes at real bargain prices.

Check out my previous post for details: http://tinyurl.com/BWscifi (just remember that any references to NEXT week are now THIS week!)

Speaking of the library, the Summer Reading Program's far from over, with award-winning songwriter and recording artist Katherine Dines presenting an interactive program at 1 p.m. today. It's designed for kids from toddler age to 6.

Just a head's up: The River Park playground and shelter will be closed today through Thursday for playground maintenance. This would be a good time to check out one of the city's other parks and playgrounds, like the newest, Owl Creek Park, between Concord Pass and Chestnut Springs Road in east Brentwood. You'll find a picnic shelter, playground, basketball courts and walking paths.

It's supposed to rain on Wednesday, so you may want to settle on the sofa and watch WC-TV's Classic Football Game of the Week: Brentwood vs. Franklin, September 26, 2006. It will be aired on Comcast Channel 3 at 9 a.m. and 2 and 7 p.m. Also, Brentwood High's 2009 graduation ceremony will air Friday at 10 a.m. and 3 and 8 p.m.

About a zillion years ago I wanted to be Good Morning America's Joan Lunden. A newspaper career won out over a broadcasting one, but I still can't wait to hear Channel 4 news anchor Demetria Kalodimos at Thursday's Women in Business luncheon. Sponsored by the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber, it begins at 11:15 a.m. at the FiftyForward Martin Center. Noon today is the deadline to register. It's $12 for chamber members, $15 for guests. You can register online at http://www.brentwood.org/ or call the chamber at 373-1595.

King named Firefighter of the Year

2009-07-21T00:37:00.005-05:00

More details will be coming, but in the meantime, here are highlight's from Saturday night's Brentwood Fire & Rescue Department's annual awards ceremony:

Congratulations to Engineer Ronnie King, pictured top right, named Brentwood’s 2009 Firefighter of the Year. He was honored for his outstanding contributions in the area of Water Supply ISO Compliance and Recruit Firefighter Development. King joined the department in 2002 and was promoted to engineer in 2005.

Firefighter Chris Shore, bottom right, received the department’s first ever Meritorious Service Award for his rescue of a fellow firefighter following a floor collapse at a structure fire in October of last year. No injuries were reported as a result of Shore’s actions.
Four different Medical Service Awards were presented for crews or individuals whose intervention directly saved a life. This honor is awarded to recognize successful resuscitation of a patient found not breathing and/or in cardiac arrest. Assistant Chief Brian Goss stated that the four lives saved this year were a direct result of new technology, superior training of fire personnel, and a greater awareness of the public resulting in increased bystander CPR.

Other award recipients included Engineer Ron Woodmansee, Letter of Commendation; Firefighter Katie Williams, Civic Award; and a Unit Citation for Station #2, B shift.

Latest BW crime report released

2009-07-20T23:37:00.004-05:00

The Brentwood Police Department on Monday released its most recent crime report, for the week ending July 18.
At the top of the list are four residential burglaries between July 8 and July 15 that included thefts of jewelry and other valuables. Three of the properties all had front doors that were forced open. They include burglaries at 509 Dekemont Lane in Belle Rive; 1199 Retreat Lane just off Concord Road in Willowmet and 6034 Murray Lane. No suspects are listed on the report.
In a separate incident, a family member is suspected of gaining entry into a home at 1078 Highland Road in Highland View. Nothing was reported taken.
Two actions involving motor vehicles were reported. A '97 Nissan van reported stolen out of Mississippi was recovered and Cesar Varzques-Morales arrested on I-65 on July 10.
And on July 13, a 1994 Mercury van was reported stolen from the southbound side of I-65 between Old Hickory Boulevard and Concord Road.
Four thefts from motor vehicles were reported last week, including three in Brookfield subdivision in east Brentwood. Between July 10 and 11, at 3108 Kottas Court, a passenger side window was broken out. During that same time period, a laptop computer and printer were taken from an unlocked vehicle at 2516 Shays Lane. On July 11, a window was reported broken out and a Garmin GPS device was reported taken at 2496 Ann Julian Court.
Between July 12 and 14, Tennessee license plate 502VNB was taken from a vehicle at 1749 Mallory Lane.
Vandalism was reported at the Maryland Farms YMCA, the Governor's Club, River Park, the Oak Hall subdivision and in Raintree Forest.
At the Y, a vehicle was keyed between July 6 and 9. A knife or tool was used to carve on the walls of the Winstead Mansion at the Governor's Club, which is owned by the Property Owner's Association, between July 10 and 13. A wall and urinal in the men's restroom at River Park were spray painted on July 15. And on July 16, a bulletin board maintained by the Raintree Forest HOA had its glass door broken.
In Oak Hall, feces was left on the door and in a can on the front porch of a home that also was rolled. In response to a question I asked and posted previously in BrentWord, Captain Jeff Hughes stated at this time there is no evidence that it was a hate crime. It is being treated as a prank.
Nine instances of general theft include four seperate instances of shoplifting, from Best Buy on Galleria Boulevard, Mapco Express on Moores Lane, Home Depot on Moores Lane and Ross Dress for Less on Galleria Boulevard. Gregg Gentry and Carl Gentry were arrested in the Best Buy case and a warrant has been issued for the Home Depot theft of tools. A white male is being sought in the July 10 theft of cigarettes from the Mapco. He was reported driving a green Mercury with a Tennessee tag.
Other thefts include two laptop computers from a Flowerwood Court residence in Mooreland Estates; a ring taken from an unlocked locker at the Brentwood YMCA; a pressure washer taken from a pried-open storage shed on Wilson Pike Circle; jewelry taken from a Shenandoah Drive resident during a move; and laptop computers and clothes taken from a residence at Manassas Court in River Oaks.
Two of the more intriguing crimes reported last week include four 8-foot teakwood umbrellas taken from outside picnic tables at the Tennessee Society of CPAs' Maryland Farms offices at 201 Powell Place, and water. Yes, water taken from FedEx Kinko's in the Brentwood Hill Center shopping center "stolen from over a period of months from rear facet."
If you have information on any of these crimes, please contact the Brentwood Police Department at 371-0160.

In case you missed previous posts concerning recent crimes, see:
http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/update-from-bpd-on-burglaries.html
http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/ransacked-home-stuns-brentwood-family.html
http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/vandalism-in-oak-hall-subdivision.html

Have a great day...

2009-07-20T08:02:00.002-05:00

The BrentWord home office is closed today as I'm in North Carolina for friend Sara's memorial. But we'll be up and running again bright and early Tuesday, so send news, happenings and anything else to brentword@comcast.net and I'll include it tomorrow.
If you missed posts from last week, take a few minutes to scroll down and catch up.
And, as always, thanks for reading.

The buzz on Beans

2009-07-17T15:09:00.004-05:00

Good news and bad news.
The good: If you got into Judge Bean's Bar-B-Que's special Thursday night "soft opening" you enjoyed brisket wraps, Diablos (jalapenos stuffed with smoked shrimp or chicken and chicken, then wrapped in bacon), cowboy beans, barbecue beans, all the beer you could drink and music by Trent Wilmon and Wade Hayes.
The bad: If you didn't go or didn't get in, you'll have to wait until the official grand opening on Monday. There's no time for another "softie." There's an outdoor patio to be built and last minute renovation's to be finished.
All this came not from the man himself, but his longtime catering director Mary Louise Haley. I met Mary when I stopped by today to get the scoop.
I also picked up a menu. Looks good. But I don't think Corky's or Stroud's need to worry. Judge Bean's specializes in Texas-style beef barbecue. There's hardly any pork on the menu. And as Southerners, there is always room in our lives for all kinds of barbecue.
And I love this, the "Skinny Jenny": "We even added salad for the Brentwood people. Leaf lettuce, diced tomato, cucumber, bacon bis, sprinkle of cheese w/ blue cheese, balsamic or ranch on the side. $5. Add buzzard or armadillo and the price goes up to $8.50. You figure it out.
OK, enough free advertising. Check it out yourself starting Monday and let me know what you think.
Judge Bean's is located at 7022 Church St. E.

Headed to UT for freshman year? Party!

2009-07-17T15:01:00.004-05:00

Don't worry Mom and Dad. I'm not talking about THAT kind of party. Received this from Brentwood PR person extraordinaire Lucinda Hall earlier this week:

Summer send-off, ice cream social
planned Aug. 2 at Granny White Park
BRENTWOOD --The Williamson County University of Tennessee Alumni Chapter invites all incoming freshman from Williamson County who will be entering one of it UT campuses this fall and their families to attend a Summer Send-Off /Ice Cream Social at Granny White Park, 610 Granny White Pike in Brentwood, from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2.
“Come meet and greet with fellow incoming and current student/parents and enjoy ice cream provided by Edy's Food Service, Williamson County UT Alumni Chapter and the UT-Knoxville Parent's Association. All Williamson County UT alumni are welcome too! Door prizes and T-shirts will be provided,” Dawn D. Dietrich, who with her husband, Norman, chairs the Membership and Events Committee of the UT-Knoxville Parents Association
Incoming UT students and their families get in free, while $5 covers UT alumni and friends. Reservation are requested by July 29 at dddntn@aol.com. Checks can be mailed to Dawn Dietrich, 2734 Rock Wall Road, Nashville, TN 37221-4372. Please make checks payable to "Williamson County UT Alumni Chapter."
To download a reservation form, visit the UT Alumni chapter website at http://alumni.tennessee.edu/eblasts/090802-williamson.html or contact at dddntn@aol.com for details..
For information on the Williamson County UT Alumni Chapter, please visit http://www.williamsonvols.net.

Update from BPD on burglaries

2009-07-17T14:35:00.002-05:00

The Brentwood Police Department has released the following press release concerning the residential burglaries reported here earlier this month. If you missed the earlier posts, I've added the links below.

BRENTWOOD -- The Brentwood Police Department is currently investigating a string of residential burglaries. These crimes have occurred approximately during the last six weeks with the majority of them since July 1st. These unknown suspects are committing these crimes during the daylight hours. Based on the crime scenes, we believe there are multiple suspects involved and the burglaries are probably all committed by the same suspects.
The suspects are taking primarily jewelry and have taken one gun safe containing several weapons.
We’re asking Brentwood citizens that see anything suspicious, whether it be an unfamiliar car cruising or parked in the neighborhood, or an unfamiliar person(s) on foot to please call the Brentwood Police Department at 371-0160 to have a car dispatched to check it out.
We’re asking the general public if they have any information concerning these crimes or suspects to call Williamson County Crimestoppers at 794-4000.

Previous links: http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/blog-post.html
http://brentword.blogspot.com/2009/07/ransacked-home-stuns-brentwood-family.html

Bean's smokin' Thursday night; Jefferson's opening soon and fried fish too

2009-07-17T10:33:00.005-05:00

That's right, Judge Bean's Barbecue, our newest Town Center restaurant had a soft opening Thursday night and it was hot. Real hot. In fact, so hot that it was too hot for me. But not because I didn't try.
Every parking spot in the Manor House parking lot and even some made up ones were taken during both of my attempts to check it out. I'm on the case, however, and promise to pop in today to get the scoop and let you know how it went. In the meantime, if you were one of the lucky ones to get in, please comment below or send me an email to let me know what you thought.
The official grand opening in Monday, July 20. Good luck finding a parking spot!

Around the world dining
Speaking of food, after being disappointed about not getting into Bean's, I decided to drive to Maryland Farms to see if Jefferson's had opened yet. Unfortunately no, but it looked like it as close.
So this morning I gave owner Jeff Webb a call to get the scoop. He tells me the family-friendly sports bar should open in about two weeks. They're just waiting on equipment.
This will be Webb's seventh restaurant in the small chain, but the first in his native Tennessee. Wings, burgers and oysters are specialties, along with plenty of appetizers.
Jefferson's is the latest restaurant to open in the little strip center off Ward Circle that may just offer Brentwood's most diverse dining. It joins Joey's House of Pizza, China Wok, The Mediterranean Cafe, Hanabi Japanese restaurant and Jersey Mike's subs.
Can't wait to check out the menu? Check out www.jeffersonsrestaurant.com

All-you-can-eat catfish tonight!
If fried fish is more to your liking than brisket, consider heading due west to the 35th annual Bethlehem United Methodist Church Fish Fry today.
All-you-can-eat catfish and fixings will be served from 4:40-8 p.m. today at the church, 2419 Bethlehem Loop in Grassland (just off Hillsboro Road). For our purposes, we'll call it Brentwood West.
Not only will there be great food, you'll find a bluegrass band, kid's games, a bake sale and more.
Tickets are $12 ($5 for those age 9 and under). Need more info? Call the church at 794-6721 or visit the church website at http://www.bethlehemumc.com/

This just in...

2009-07-16T17:10:00.002-05:00

The Nashville Post is reporting that Brentwood-based restaurant chain Sante Fe Holding Co. has filed for bankruptcy. Here's the link: http://tinyurl.com/SFrest

Another link you may be interested in if you missed earlier coverage from Monday's Brentwood City Commission meeting comes from The Williamson Herald: http://tinyurl.com/WHguns.