Farragut Independent

Farragut Independent No More...

2006-12-29T03:11:00.000-05:00

Well, after having lived in Farragut for almost 5 years, I have decided that I've had enough of the traffic, the rudeness, the seeming unconcern of the Mayor for anything (except development of roads and squeezing in yet another subdivision) and the development that is Turkey Creek! So I have decided to build a new home (and unlike the West Knox McMansions, my new abode is only 1225 sq. ft.) SW of here, in what I know will eventually become a suburb of Knoxville. So, in about 4 months, I will no longer be a resident of the town of Farragut, but as the saying goes, "It's time to move on!"

Note: Eventually everything around here will get swallowed up in the Knoxanooga area (Knoxville-Chattanooga merger of 2079), right? Or will it become Bristville (Knoxville/Bristol/Seveirville merger of 2027)? Or better yet...Knoxbrisanooga (lol, I amuse myself so easily sometimes)

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It's Been a While...

2006-11-08T03:49:00.000-05:00

...And I hope you voted yesterday (or in early voting)! If you didn't, then you have no right to complain if the person you chose lost, or if the measure you felt should have won didn't. Neither do you have the right to complain for the next 2 years about the direction of the country because you gave up that voice yesterday.

Anyway, as an independent, I feel that it is not only my right, but my DUTY to vote my consience and not along any party lines, and this election was no different.

I hope the country now gets over all the negativity that surrounded the campaigns and gets back to the business of governing again.
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How did I end up...

2006-06-13T21:33:00.000-05:00

...Registered as a member of the Republican Party (GOP)? Everyone that knows me personally knows that I cannot in good conscience register myself with either party! Although I firmly believe in personal responsibility, the right to bear arms and that government be fiscally responsible most of the time, I also believe in pro-choice, and that Government should be a "safety net" (meaning in times of hardships, Government should give a "hand-up" to folks--note this is NOT a "hand out"!). Also, taxes need to be fair (meaning the Middle Class, myself included, shouldn't be bearing most of the costs!) for everyone. The rich should pay a bit more because they can afford it but they shouldn't be punished for being successful. Estate taxes should be on anything over $10 Million (and possibly adjust it every few years for inflation), with no loopholes. Come on, if your estate is that big, then what are you doing??? You can't take it with you, so why not live a great life and help out the rest of your family and close friends while you're doing it?

When the last set of Bush tax cuts came down, someone said that the poor got a "happy meal", the middle class got a "nice dinner for a family-of-4", while the rich "got a lexus, a condo and some servants to go along with it". I can't agree with that. That along with the fact that he then spent us into a major hole of a deficit. Bush should have used some of his own common sense that when you increase spending but cut taxes, you have got to come up with the money from somewhere. I refuse to let my future kids and grandkids pay for his mistakes! Let President Bush and his cronies pay for it.

To those of you who feel a consumption based tax is fairest, I'll say this. I don't mind consumption based taxation so long as you DO NOT tax basic foods bought in a grocery store! You can tax restaurant food (and I include fast food as well as street vending and convenience stores in this) all you want, because you're paying for a service. But when you tax basic staples like milk and bread, you punish the poorest folks who can barely afford to put that food on the table by taxing them. Go ahead and tax liquor, soda, beer, etc., because those in lower income brackets who really want to feed their families shouldn't be buying those things on a regular basis anyway. As someone who has seen poverty, middle class and extravagant wealth (and everything in between), I think that's the closest thing to fair that I can come up with. If you think you can convince me otherwise, go ahead and post a reply! After all, I know I'm not the best mind out there, but at least I have some ideas!

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It's been a while....

2006-04-07T17:17:00.000-05:00

Sorry for not posting lately, but I've been swamped! I am currently in the middle of a couple of major projects @ work, a project for school & one for church. In the midst of all this, I got that nasty bug that's been taking people out for a couple of weeks and it wasn't pretty! Anyway, hopefully things will calm down soon and I'll be back to blogging in no time.....

I know the Town Of Farragut has finished it's Campbell Station Road Extension Project and although it looks good, I'm curious to see how much traffic really will be alleviated by this extension.

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Farragut is Tennessee's most "business friendly" City???

2006-03-03T16:34:00.000-05:00

OK, read the article above before proceeding. Seriously, read it first BEFORE you make any judgements, o.k.

I personally had to do a double-take when I saw it in the FP last night. But after reading the article, I must admit that based on the factors that were used for selecting the town, that they are probably right in selecting Farragut. That being said, Farragut still has much further to go to be truly business friendly. Why are we still losing businesses to Knoxville & surrounding areas? Why do we still have storefronts and other businesses that are empty? What else has the town done to encourage business to come in? Come on, is the town going to "rest" on the laurels handed to them, or raise the standards even higher?

Personally, the first thing I'd like to see consistent business signage in the ENTIRE TOWN! If that means we give those businesses that are not currently meeting the standards (for whatever reason) incentives to do so (as well as credits for those who have complied), then let's do it! Let's clean up sites like the old gas station on KP and bill the owners for the work. If they refuse to keep their lot up to par, maybe the town should seize it and allow other development to take place. Have any of y'all got great ideas? Post 'em!

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Sound & Cinema In Farragut-Review

2006-02-17T22:06:00.000-05:00

If you go into this store (which is in front of the Ingles in Farragut) thinking it's going to be a boutique "Best Buy," you're going to be sadly mistaken! This store is ABSOLUTELY nothing like Best Buy, Circuit City, Tweeter or any of those "chain" stores. The only thing they have in common is that they sell electronics, and unless you read those truly "audiophile" type magazines, you'll never even recognize the brands that Sound & Cinema carries. And that's just the way that Brian & Caleb like it! This store carries speakers that are more than my salary for an entire year! (as well as other, more affordable setups). Displays (it would be an injustice to call them TV's) and projection units that really bring out the quality out of Hi-Def and DVD's. They carry Audio and Home Theatre equipment that is truly worthy of being in those McMansions that are sprouting out here in West Knox/Farragut.

The guys are truly passionate about their work. They will recommend what will be the best for your particular needs (as well as offer alternatives). They may seem expensive, but you need to remember that what you're buying there is not your common run-of-the-mill electronics, but top-of-the world, best-in-class, high-end stuff and the service to go along with it (including customizing and home installation--which btw, they will come out to your home for a free initial consult if you'd like). If you truly want to know what good home audio/home theatre equipment looks/sounds like, head on in and bring some of your favorite CD's and DVD's. Believe me, you'll be convinced. Either that, or you've been spending way too much time listening to mediocrity to know what the best should really sound like...

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Recorders are out on GCR!

2006-02-13T16:13:00.000-05:00

To everyone that does on drive Grigsby Chapel Road on a regular basis (and those of you who don't), please drive like you normally would. Just past Campbell Station Road, counters have been there recording the number of cars as well as the speed of those driving over the strips. This is the first step to the town determining what our needs are when it comes to traffic calming measures on GCR. Hopefully we get some determinations that make our roads safer!

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A BIG THANK-YOU

2006-01-31T16:38:00.000-05:00

To everyone who attended the last FBMA meeting,

Thank-you! for attending and making your voices heard concerning Grigsby Chapel Road. For all those folks from Farragut Commons, Ramsgate, Windham Hall, Fox Den, & others who came out to speak on the traffic problems that are making our streets unsafe. Your participation was greatly needed and now it is up to us to keep that fire burning until the FBMA formally declares its plan to fix the challenges we have set before them.

Now I know this problem will not be fixed overnight, but now that the board formally knows about them and has committed resources to investigate how bad of a problem this is, they will have to acknowledge that whatever fix they implement must be one that will be long-term, not just a "band-aid" fix.

I do hope that once the fixes have been implemented, Grigsby Chapel Road no longer becomes a cut-through to Loudon County, and that it becomes a safe road once again.

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What concerns do you have for the Town of Farragut?

2006-01-24T21:40:00.000-05:00

To the bunch of you who read this blog, I want to know what you think should be a concern of the Farragut Board of Mayor and Aldermen (FBMA). I know that traffic is an issue as is school overcrowding. But what else do you see here in our town that needs to be addressed? Let me know by posting your opinion in the comments.

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January 26th, FBMA Meeting

2006-01-13T11:25:00.000-05:00

Some people have asked that I post this. On January 26th at 7pm, during the Citizen's Forum, someone will be talking about the traffic issues on Grigsby Chapel Road/Smith Road in Farragut. They would like as much of the community to come out and voice their opinions on what is becoming an unsafe road to travel. They are not willing to accept the "explanation" from the FBMA that the Campbell Station Road Projects will alleviate this problem (because we know that they won't). It is time for the FBMA to seriously take a look at the traffic problems they have caused and start taking the safety of its citizens seriously.

Again, come out to the Farragut Town Hall on Jan. 26th and have your voice be heard.

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I Take It That...

2006-01-04T08:31:00.000-05:00

...Apparently Traffic Lights, Stop Signs, Pedestrians, Speed Limits, Those White and Yellow Lines, School Zones & even using the turn signals on your vehicle DO NOT matter to anyone else who has a license to drive in West Knox County. It takes a visible Sheriff or KPD Officer to get people to comply with those basic "rules of the road." For the few days I decided to keep myself away from my computer this past holiday season, I decided to really be a stickler for the rules of the road and see what would happen. I drove the speed limit, waited for pedestrians to cross the street, stopped if I saw yellow, waited the 3 seconds if I was the only one at an intersection with a stop sign, etc. Boy did I get some reactions! Now mind you, I drive a Buick Rendezvous (and it's not a small vehicle by any means), but I actually had some folks try and run me off the road (well, it felt like it anyway) by trying to push me into driving faster, run red lights, etc. Now if the Mayor and the Aldermen for our town can't work with our KCSD, then maybe it's time to find an alternative. After all, why even have a town if you are not going to be concerned about the safety and security of it's residents???

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Merry Christmas AND Happy Holidays!

2005-12-20T09:54:00.000-05:00

Since I will for the most part be unavailable until after the new year, I just thought I would leave y'all with my wishes for a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, a Great Kwanzaa, a Happy New Year and an awesome holiday season. I know that I will enjoy my time during the holidays and hope you do too.

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Traffic Light Cameras...

2005-12-07T10:48:00.000-05:00

Well, I've picked a controversial topic to blog about today....and I'm not worried about them one bit! Red-light cameras. This has got the be the best idea put forth to enforce traffic since sliced bread (at least for the Knox County area, anyway)! Before this week, I didn't lean one way or the other when it came to them, but now I welcome them with open arms and hope that they get put in at EVERY intersection with a traffic light in the ENTIRE COUNTY!!!!!!!!! Here's why I think they're a good idea for Knox County.

Reduction of red-light runners. I'm tired of seeing 3 and 4 cars run the light at many intersections. This reduces the amount of time for the ones who have waited patiently for the light to turn green to then move and for some, they end up waiting for yet another cycle of red as a result.
Video evidence in cases of accidents and crimes in progress. Sure, initially, they won't be used for this purpose, but why not use them for that purpose as well.
Evidence in other moving violations--such as the cheaters over at Peters Road & Cedar Bluff who drive me and many of my fellow law abiding citizens absolutely MAD!
Increase the awareness of driving behavior and its effects on others. I'm tired of the "monkey see, monkey do" attitude.

For those of you who claim that Red-light cameras increase rear-end accidents, I tell you this--

If you rear-end someone who is stopping at a red-light, you're either--

Driving Too Fast
Not Paying Attention
Too close to the car in front of you
Combination of the 3 above
Deserve the ticket regardless of your reason for performing any of above that you did.

And in reality, rear-end collisions are only increased for a few months at most. Once you've gotten used to them, you will either comply or be hit with the consequences. Literally!

Lastly, for those of you that think this reeks of "Big Brother," well I'm sorry to say that although I disliked the idea originally, after driving through this county enough and having seen the "wild west" attitude, I had to change my mind. After all, I want my future kids and hopefully grandkids to grow up in a calmer, more peaceful environment than is out on our roadways now. I want them to learn that respecting the law is actually a good thing. Remember driving is a PRIVILEGE, not a right. If you choose to disobey the rules of the road, you don't deserve to drive. If I get caught running a red-light, then I deserve the ticket, just like everyone else!

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It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year...

2005-12-01T17:22:00.000-05:00

...but not for traffic! And apparently too many West Knox/Farragut drivers feel like they own the ENTIRE ROAD! When I'm getting passed on either side (of a 4 lane highway, meaning someone is taking their life in their hands), people staying straight on a right turn only lane, folks honking me for slowing down and not crossing a red-light, etc., etc., etc. Well, I guess it's time to blog about it, yet again. Can it be possible in the "Bible Belt" that the phrase "Golden Rule" means that "He who has the gold makes the rules"??? This is supposed to be the Christmas season, but apparently Christ and His birth have given way to Santa Claus and the millions of X-Box 360's and other gifts that will be under the tree this year. Oh well.

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Wish a new business Good Luck!

2005-11-29T22:12:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to comment on the new Home Theater business that has gone into the Farragut Towne Square shopping center. Sound & Cinema looks like it's in the right area to open up. I just hope enough of y'all can make it profitable enough for them to stay around until I can afford to get some of their stuff installed in my own condo. Their shop looks promising and encourages everyone that walks in to "dream" of what they'd like to see in their own systems.

Drop on in and take a look around! And while you're at it, dream and see if they can make that dream a reality...

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Are you interested in your county & its future?

2005-11-21T07:07:00.000-05:00

Well, are you? Do you want to see if what you do can make a difference? If so, now is the perfect time to start planning for next year. The elections for the county are in April, but the petitioning started last Friday (November 18). I don't care if you're Democrat, Republican, or Independent! If you think you can make a difference, consider running for office. I can't consider it at this time due to my current work, church and school obligations, but I encourage anyone and everyone who is old enough to qualify to run to consider doing so. After all, if an 18 year-old can become mayor...

Also, does anyone know when the Farragut Elections will be held next? Please reply if you do. Thanks.
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Campbell Station Headaches!

2005-11-09T22:05:00.000-05:00

OK, am I imagining things or is Campbell Station road North of Kingston Pike getting more and more congested? I head down that road several times a week from Grigsby Chapel/Parkside Dr. to go to my Chiropractor, Blockbuster, get dinner at Oskies, or Gondolier, KFC, etc. Lately, it seems like this road is full of "road-ragers" (including one in a huge SUV that decided to pass me using the center turn lane, no less!). I'm thinking of calling in the sheriff's dept. and asking them to police this road a bit more agressively. After all, Farragut Primary School is on this road, as is the Farragut Branch of the Knox County Library, Campbell Station Park and the back entrance to Farragut High.

Am I alone in my part of town for wanting a safe place to drive and walk? Let me know.
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What Farragut Needs, Part 2

2005-10-31T08:28:00.000-05:00

Well, I saw a few comments on my previous post, and I'd like to thank all those who posted. I noticed that law enforcement was a biggie. I agree. The fact of the matter remains that our current problem remains enforcment. After all, we're not known as the Wild, Wild, West Knox County for nothing! If there's anything that we're known for its that you can usually speed around West Knox and get away with it. You can file all the restraining orders you want, and they'll be disregarded. You can "pump and run" at the local gas station and usually get away with it (even with cameras that are able to get license tags). Or even walk into a convenience store and walk out with beer without paying for it. I know that aside from the speeding (which a vast majority do), the rest are the result of a few bad apples ruining the whole basket.

Since I've heard that we are unable to get more sheriff's deputies allocated to West Knox, maybe we need to partner a "Community Policing" initiative with them. Do we even know if such a model will work in Farragut? What do you think?

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What does Farragut need most?

2005-10-22T20:30:00.000-05:00

I know that's a loaded question I've started with, but it needs to be asked and of course, I have an opinion, but I'd like to hear from y'all before I respond in my next post. Does it need more schools? Or does it need more law enforcement? Or more roads? Or is it something else? I'd like to know what you think, so respond away!

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I Miss My Car...

2005-10-19T07:20:00.000-05:00

My car has been in the shop since Monday & I've really missed driving it, but not just because it is my car. Driving around in a mid-size rental car is not it, either. But being bullied, pushed, passed on the right and close to being run-off the road is! That is not how anyone should feel behind the wheel! I don't care if you're 16, 36 (like I'll be soon) or 86, one shouldn't feel intimidated by other drivers driving larger vehicles. I'm sure that this is just the "few bad apples" getting to me, but maybe it isn't. I know we've got some of the best roads in Knox County, but does that mean people should be disregarding the safety of themselves and others by speeding and driving agressively? No!

I wish this would be the last post on West Knox/Farragut driving, but it probably won't unless some major changes are made by it's administrations.

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Vacation is over...& nothing has changed...

2005-10-12T07:27:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm back from vacation. Exhausted from driving, but ready to get back to blogging again!

I see that all the issues surrounding our town still exist. From the increasing traffic outside my subdivision, to the unconstrained development, the "crime" and lack of law enforcement thereof, to the road construction that I truly believe will NOT change driving behavior for the better, and of course the speeders who will stop it nothing to barrel over anyone and everyone who gets in their way.

Well, I guess it's now time to get into an activist type of mode now that I'm back from my vacation. And I'm looking for folks that are willing to help. Call your mayor and aldermen. Make them listen to you and your concerns. You can also voice your concerns before each and every Town Meeting--whether it's a FBMA or MPC meeting, so make your voice be heard. My problem is that I'm unable to attend most of those meetings as I have a planned activity most Thursday nights, but that shouldn't stop anyone else from going to the town hall. Also, please be considerate of your fellow neighbors and SLOW DOWN and follow the rules and speed limits.

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I'm Out On Vacation

2005-09-26T21:09:00.000-05:00

Well, for the next 2 weeks or so, I won't be blogging as I'm officially preparing for my vacation and heading out to hopefully sunny places south of here. I don't even plan on bringing anything related to a computer (aside from my digital camera, that is). Don't worry; I will be back and active once I return. Maybe I'll even post a few pictures once I get back.

Meanwhile, head out to the Rocky Top Brigade and take a look at the many fine blogs about Tennessee.
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Here we go again...

2005-09-23T07:11:00.000-05:00

Well, gas prices are going up again. This time due to Hurricane Rita. Now can someone please tell me the logic of having a very significant portion of our refining capabilitity in ONE AREA? I know it is close to where the majority of oil comes into our country, but it makes us vulnerable when something significant like this happens. Come on, we've essentially put most of our eggs in one basket and it looks like the basket may be crushed by the end of the weekend if the worst case scenarios play out. Where's our backup capabilities when we need them most? Lining shareholder's and executive pockets apparently. The oil companies have refused to make new refineries because they cite costs as being too high. Well, obviously the benefits now are obvious (at least to me).

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What's Your Hurry???

2005-09-21T07:38:00.000-05:00

Traffic, traffic, traffic! Lately, that's all I see in West Knox/Farragut. Thing is, its not the amount of traffic that's making me steamed, it's the wreckless abandon that the few "bad apples" called agressive drivers have been doing. What got to me this time was one family in a large SUV who were speeding down Campbell Station Road at a very unsafe speed (you know who you are), pulled up behind me (I was doing 42mph), honked horns, considered using the center turn lane to pass, and even flipped me the bird when they were finally able to pass me just before Kingston Pike. Well, I'm telling you now, I'm not going to be intimidated by your childish and selfish actions. There's a reason for speed limits and rules of the road people! They're as much for your safety as well as those around you.

Here's my list of questions to all you agressive drivers out there--
Do you know what risks you are doing to yourselves, the people in your vehicles and to the rest of us? Do you know that you're causing higher insurance rates for yourself and everyone around you? Do you care that eventually you will be in an accident and that you will more likely be the cause of said accident (not to mention you make the injuries sustained worse due to said agression)? Will it matter to you unless your or someone else gets hurt? Or until you get pulled over, ticketed, or sued and it hits your pocket directly? Can you plan your life so it's not so busy? Maybe it's time to cut some of those activites out or at least pare them down so you're not so rushed. If not, at least manage your time so you're not having to risk it, please.

For those of you who follow the rules--
I'm glad I have a big enough vehicle not to get totally pushed around as I drive the speed limit. But for those of you who aren't in a large car or SUV, don't be bullied by those agressive drivers. Sure, be curteous and considerate, but don't let them get to you. After all, if they would just plan better, they might not need to be in such a rush....

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Nice to know that there's still some compassion around here

2005-09-16T21:16:00.000-05:00

Well, since we've had an influx of people into Knoxville from parts south of us, it's nice to know that there are folks helping them out. Whether they're being assisted by individuals, churches or other organizations, I just want to say that they really appreciate all the help. Just remember, this is not going to be a short-term deal. These folks will need long-term hands-up (notice, I didn't say hand-outs), and we should assist wherever possible to help them get back on their feet. Even if its nothing more than your prayers, continue to do whatever you can.
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CCRGD Blog

2005-09-09T18:46:00.000-05:00

"Concerned Citizens for Responsible Growth and Development" was formed to provide input and support for local schools, school traffic safety, and responsible zoning and growth. The group supports modern urban planning concepts to ensure traffic safety and preserve the quality of life in Farragut and West Knox County. I discovered today that they also have a nice blog to go along with their forum. If you want an alternative look at what is going on in terms of growth and development, head on over and take a peek. You may be surprised at what you read. Then again, you may not.

Good luck in your quest men!

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Make sure to...

2005-09-07T20:37:00.000-05:00

If you haven't already, make sure to fill out that special census form. According to the town, we've grown by almost 3000 and they want to make sure we get all the shared tax dollars we can get. Make sure it's postmarked by September 9.

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Hope y'all had fun...I didn't...

2005-09-07T08:14:00.000-05:00

Well, I got some flu bug over the holiday weekend and am currently at home in bed "sick as a dog", so I won't be blogging for a few days. Hopefully this won't last too long!

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Keep it safe & sound

2005-09-03T02:08:00.000-05:00

I know that a lot of you are planning on partying over Labor Day. What with the UT Football game and the Boomsday stuff going on, there's a lot of opportunities to go overboard. Well, if you decide that's what you're going to do, please have a designated driver or call a cab. The last thing I want to read in the paper on Tuesday is how many folks died because they were stupid, o.k.

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Will Gas Prices Finally Slow People Down?

2005-09-01T22:50:00.000-05:00

Like I said in my previous post, I cancelled all my plans for Labor Day Weekend. But I noticed that when gas is over $3/gallon, it has made a lot of people slow down their speeds on Kingston Pike and Parkside Drive. Now how long this will last, I don't know, but I am happy to see it, even if it is for a few days.

Update--Well with gas on Campbell Station starting at 3.29/gallon, it's apparently not enough for some folks to slow down, but I'll take whatever temporary progress is available.

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I'd have laughed....

2005-08-31T15:30:00.000-05:00

...if 5 years ago, you'd tell me we'd see the price of regular gas at $3 bucks a gallon. Yet, today as I went out to lunch, that's exactly what I saw. And that was if the gas station was even open for business. I couldn't believe my eyes. There are reports of gas stations not even having gas available for sale. Well, I've cancelled ALL of my Labor Day weekend plans and have decided to stay home! I will only be going to church and maybe out to do some karaoke this weekend, but other than that, I plan on just relaxing at home. Thank you "W" for taking more out of my wallet than ever before!

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Hurricane Katrina

2005-08-30T07:14:00.000-05:00

Well, I heard this morning that volunteers from Farragut are headed down to help those folks further south of us to assist in the cleanup from the devastation that is Katrina. Well, pray for all the survivors and those that are going down to help them. We can't all go, but we can contribute funds to assist the effort by going to the American Red Cross website, or call them at 1-800-HELP-NOW.

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Speed Limits, Stealth Vehicles & Choices

2005-08-24T06:30:00.000-05:00

As I drive through our town and West Knox County, I notice that there are a vast majority of people who couldn't care less about their fellow man. They have obviously decided that they are #1 and nobody else matters. Those of you who speed, pull out in front of people, cut them off, etc., have made our town and county a dangerous place to be! In the past few posts (and many before that), I've been commenting on drivers around here. Well, yesterday was the "straw that broke this camel's back!" I got cut-off 3 times, passed while doing the speed limit even more and almost got into an accident because of drivers who believe that they are in the Farragut/West Knox 500. All of this just heading back and forth to work! I swear, I'm driving a Buick Rendezvous and that's no small vehicle, and it's not that quick at stopping, either! Yet, people act as if I don't even exist. Maybe I'm driving one of those new "stealth" cars. Well, I've decided that the next one that tries to pull any stunts like I had to deal with yesterday, I'm going to hit them, it's either that or end up hitting someone else! Well, it's the idiot's choice for pulling out in front of me with a couple of car lengths when I have nowhere to go and can't do much else when I'm doing the speed limit. I've had enough!

Off the soapbox...until next time...

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Are you really that pressed for time???

2005-08-19T08:43:00.000-05:00

I'm driving in to work this morning and doing the speed limit (or 1-2 mph over depending on how my cruise control works), and not 1, not 2, but 3 cars pull right up on my bumper, get frustrated, then pass me on the right as soon as they possibly could. Maybe it's time y'all took a chill pill, calmed down and quit rushing through life! Believe me, just a few months ago, I was just like a lot of you rushing people, trying to push them out of the way, but then I realized something--will it really matter if I get there a few seconds/minutes later? No, it won't! Since then, I've taken the time I used to spend rushing around like a madman and just let things come to me. I feel better, I'm not as stressed and I'm enjoying my activities more. So come on, slow down, take it easy and enjoy life. After all, you only have one life on this earth, enjoy the time you have while you're here, o.k.

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Are people too self-centered?

2005-08-15T20:55:00.000-05:00

What is wrong with people lately? Are we moving down a path where everyone around us is just a bunch of chopped liver? Reason I'm asking is I was looking at the last item in one of our local shops when someone walked up, picked it up and then headed out the checkout lane. Well, I guess it was a good thing that I didn't need one of them, otherwise I'd have been mad. But have we become so self-centered that other people don't matter? Looking at the other side of the coin I guess I could see that because I didn't have my hand on it, it was fair game. I guess that I'll just have to take that as a lesson learned. Oh well...
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Sprawl, Sprawl, Everywhere There's Sprawl

2005-08-11T06:52:00.000-05:00

Well, in my last post, a bunch of the comments kept bringing up sprawl as a significant issue. Well, guess what? I've learned that as long as you've got people that are upwardly mobile, "living the American dream", you're going to have sprawl. Why? Because they all want the same thing--a piece of LAND they can call their own. And I don't mean a co-op in some high-rise building! I don't care if the lot line is ZERO, as long as it's a piece of real estate I can call my own. And guess what else? As long as we keep on growing our economy the way we have been (at a rate of 3-5% every year), sprawl will continue unless it's restricted. But I'll warn you, in the cases where I've seen sprawl restricted, you drive up the costs of property in the restricted area to the point where the middle class is unable to afford it, so what do they do, they look for affordable housing and create more sprawl as a result. You can't win this battle unless you kill off the human race.

A buddy of mine and I were talking about this last night. Knoxville is a very LONG town. It's not very wide (yet, but it'll come once the Orange/Blue/Green route gets started), but it's pretty long. Just look at how many miles of interstate it takes to go through and how long it takes to get through from West to East Knox and you'll understand, its not just Farragut, it's everywhere. If you were to take the amount of residents Knoxville has and put it in a major urban area like Atlanta, Knoxville would be significantly smaller than it is, but housing would me much more costly. What do you want? Housing in price-ranges for everyone or high-priced homes only a few can afford?

Human nature dictates that we use and take up all available space. Its who we are. That being said, a town/city leadership should and can control the amount of growth and balance it where its citizens are able to move freely and not tax it's resources unnecessarily. That's where we have failed. Our leadership both in Farragut and Knoxville has not controlled the growth correctly, so we have infrastructure that is constantly being upgraded just to meet current demand. Look at the high school situation, the road situation and I think you all can think of other situations here in town. These projects, once completed will be at capacity almost at day 1! Who are we kidding when I hear from the town leadership that folks will use the Campbell Station Connector instead of Smith Road/Grigsby Chapel to head through town and get to the interstate? Who are we kidding when we know that the new West Knox High will be 90-95% full once it opens regardless of whether that day is 2 years or 2 days from now. Unless it impacts you or your pocketbook directly, most of us couldn't care less. But guess what? Eventually it does impact you and your pocketbook, whether indirectly by property values/taxes or directly in increased costs.

This is my opinion, I reserve the right to change it if you can convince me otherwise!

Getting off the soapbox...

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I Can't Believe That....

2005-08-04T06:31:00.000-05:00

There are people who actually do this all over Knox County in restaurants, bars, pubs, and nightclubs. It's called "dine and dash", "eat and run", "skipping out on the tab" and many other sayings I've heard over the years. Guess who you hurt when you do this rude activity? Not the restaurant, that's for sure! It's the waiter or waitress who served you that ends up paying the bill. Some folks have left with bills in the hundreds of $$$’s. When the bill is that expensive, the waiter or waitress (who makes less than $3/hr. + tips, btw, which isn't bad if you're a good waiter/waitress, but a lot of them barely end up making $5-6/hr) ends up with a “negative paycheck.” Some of them end up paying this off over weeks. I talked with some waiters and waitresses this week and this is worse than not leaving a tip! And it happens all the time, even in West Knox/Farragut. How would you like it if you worked for no pay because someone decided that they wanted your money before you got it? Well, that’s essentially what you do to those folks when you do this. I'll admit, I skipped out on a tab once when I was in college, but I was so guilty I went back later and paid double just because I couldn't stand myself until I made it right.

Again, if the service is bad, don't tip the waiter/waitress, but don't leave them high and dry with the check, too. That's despicable!

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Review--Little Bangkok Restaurant

2005-08-01T07:13:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I took the opportunity to go to the Little Bangkok restaurant which just opened up in the old Cafe Europa location (and the other end of Mellow Mushroom). From what I saw and ate, I think that the new management has a hit on it's hands! I'm not going to review dishes here, because to do so may bias your opinion. However, try anything on the menu and if it's not good, well, I'm sorry for you and your taste buds. Everything I had was full of flavor and simply delicious!

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Apologies & learning lessons....

2005-07-29T08:08:00.000-05:00

To those of you who have read my Rumor Mill post, I'm going to apologize now. I will not be commenting any more on rumors I hear, now or in the future. It was not right of me to comment on those rumors in the first place, and spreading them was even worse of me and not a Christian thing to do. Someone once told me beware of playing with rumors, you usually are the one who gets burned by them! I now see the wisdom in that.

However, that being said, I found all of your comments very interesting. Personally, I think that Farragut may not be controlling it's growth properly because we are suffering the effects of short-term sprawl and there appears to be no end in sight! Right now my HOA is looking at the proposed sub-division that is to be created on Grigsby Chapel and weighing the pros and cons of it. Sure, our property values will most likely go up, however, can we deal with more traffic on this already crowded road? How about the additional cars that are already lining up when school starts? The sub-divison's main entrance will be right in the middle of that line-up, and how many people are going to let folks from that sub-division during school drop-off and pick-up times? Have our town's leaders taken civic planning courses? Are we willing to continue to grow residential development without the necessary infrastructure requirements? Also, are we going to continue to let our "business unfriendly" image survive?

I don't know what to do here. HELP!!!! We need people to point out our town's issues and possible solutions to them to our leaders. Call them, e-mail them, hold them to their promises!

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The Rumor Mill...

2005-07-27T08:33:00.000-05:00

I'm hearing rumors around town and although I hate spreading gossip, I want to know if there is any truth to them whatsoever. I keep hearing that 1st Baptist Concord is trying to purchase all of the land currently occupied by Ingles and the former Regal Cinema in order to build a High School complex.

If this is true, this most likely would be the worst decision ever! If I were a person planning on building any school, I wouldn't build it on a known busy street! You put your children at risk for harm and danger. I personally don't like having schools or churches on Kingston Pike because it is and should be where retail development happens. Churches and belong in the middle of neighborhoods because they are to be in usually low traffic areas, have limited growth (which in the case of a church should have the members split off and grow another church in another neighborhood), usually reduce crime and increase the property values of the homes around them. Placing such a facility on Kingston Pike however, gets you the problems we see every Sunday (you all know what they are, don't you?), and if you put a school in the same area, you'll add those same problems every single day!

I am not a member of the FBC and know nobody in that church's leadership, so if you are, please feel free to comment on this.

Getting off the poverbial soapbox...
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Have we become un-patriotic?

2005-07-25T06:19:00.000-05:00

I was at a couple of sporting events over the weekend (o.k., they were on TV), but I noticed that many of the people in the stands and those actually playing the game did not put their hands over their hearts (although those in uniform did salute as they should) when the National Anthem was sung, and the flag raised. I can understand if you're not a citizen of this country, but as the camera panned across the stands, it appeared like the vast majority of folks were content to keep their hands by their sides. That's a shame considering all the blood that's been shed over our nation's symbols. And yet, we're willing to curse at people who dare make a statement by satirizing the Anthem or Burning the Flag. I guess what I'm saying is if you're not willing to salute or respect the Anthem or the Flag, then you're essentially satirizing/burning it in your own way! Think about that.

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Traffic Light by Baptist Hospital

2005-07-22T06:23:00.000-05:00

Is it me, or did something finally happen to the traffic light over by the Baptist Hospital in Farragut? If someone finally changed it so that we're not having to stop for empty cycles and missing the light over by Lovell Rd., then I thank you!

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Homeless in Farragut...

2005-07-19T08:20:00.000-05:00

Well, I read the comments from my previous post and have decided to create a new post about it--Homelessness in Farragut.

Well, I do know that there are panhandlers here in Farragut. Just look off of any of our interstate exits (watt/campbell station/lovell), and you'll see them. Now whether or not they're really homeless is debatable, but they say that they're "hard on their luck". I'm not going to judge here, o.k. Regardless, someone commented that we should have a homeless shelter in Farragut and there were comments both for and against it.

Well, I think that we should be open to giving folks a "hand-up." Notice, I didn't say a hand-out. People that are truly wanting to be helped will accept terms that help them up, while people that want to be lazy will just ask for money and nothing more. I wouldn't object to an organization that helps get people on their feet again here in Farragut. What I object to is just having homeless shelters that do nothing more than house and feed people before putting them back out on the street again. I also object to panhandlers who are out there because they know they can make more money from generous people while taking that money away from other people who can really make use of it.

That's my opinion and I'd like to hear what y'all think!

Getting off the soapbox...
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It's Official...We've lost another business

2005-07-15T07:29:00.000-05:00

Looking at the KNS movie listings this morning, I was not surprised to read that our Farragut Regal Movie Theatre has now been closed. Well, from what I understood that was about 3% of our tax revenue. That may not sound like much, but when the town is dipping from the rainy day fund to the tune of about $2 Million, every dollar counts! I would hope that we could find a use for the site that will bring people into our town and spend money here. Anyone got any ideas? I'd consider opening up a community center there, but I know I can't afford the lease or the renovation costs. Maybe our town leaders should consider it.

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2 weeks of a new zip code...

2005-07-14T08:05:00.000-05:00

And so far, it's been crazy! Those of you who have read my other blog, know about my situation. Well, somehow my wife's address change also took effect for me on most (but not all) of my mail. Now I'm having to try and fix the mess that's been created and the zip code isn't making it any better. Here's why--I thought I would just create a "change-of-address" from the one my wife lives at currently back to my address. Sounds logical, right? Well, it's not according to my credit cards. Because the zip code has changed but it's not registered in their systems, they still show up as 37922. But the USPS website won't let me use that zip code and demands the 37934 one. Because that zip doesn't exist in the CC database, it rejects it! I'm done trying to figure it out and I'm going to have to try another way to get my mail back!

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When did it become o.k. to...?

2005-07-13T08:36:00.000-05:00

Can someone please tell me when it became o.k. to wear undergarments as tops ala Rachel in Friends? Having been going out and about more often than I used to (something about being single again makes you do this), I've been noticing that some women have been wearing what I would consider to be frilly undergarments, putting on a bra (or in some cases not), and that's all. No jackets or anything else to cover up their barely covered bodies. This really isn't a complaint per se (if you want, go nude for all I care, but be prepared for the consequences), but this being the Bible Belt and all, I didn't think I'd be seeing this type of fashion here. This is what I'd consider normal in a "red-light" district, not Farragut. Maybe I am getting a bit more conservative in my old age of 35 (I hope not!).

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Poker Anyone?

2005-07-06T08:04:00.000-05:00

Well, if any of you like Texas Hold 'Em, I found out that our local pub, Oskie's (in the West End), is a participant in the National Pub Poker League. They hold tournaments every Thursday at 7PM & 10PM. And it doesn't cost you any money to play! So, if you don't know much about poker and want to learn, well, here's your chance. Meet some people, have some fun and enjoy life!

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4th of July Parade

2005-06-30T19:20:00.000-05:00

I love a parade, doesn't everyone? Its just something about the bands, floats, and participants that makes it so much fun!

If you're going to be in town on the 4th of July, remember to put out your flags and come out to the parade in Farragut. It will be held at 9:30 AM, and will close Kingston Pike from Concord Road through Boring Road between 8:30 AM and NOON.

Just remember, it's illegal to play with fireworks in Knox County.

Have a safe and pleasant 4th of July!
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Single Life in Farragut?

2005-06-27T08:17:00.000-05:00

Just curious, but is there anything aside from the Cotton Eyed Joe for single entertainment in the town of Farragut? I really would like your input on this, so let me know, o.k. Thanks.

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Cracker Jack Driving School

2005-06-23T20:49:00.000-05:00

Maybe it's just me, but has Farragut and West Knox become "snob-town"? Everywhere I look, I see people driving around in new cars, trucks, etc., and they all think that they OWN the entire road! If you read your motor vehicle manual (you know, the one you get to read and learn from before you can get a driver's license), then you know that you are supposed to share the road with bicycles, motorcycles, ambulances, fire trucks, police cars, pedestrians and of course "big rigs" and other vehicles large and small. Apparently, however, that rule doesn't get used by a lot of people around here. I swear, did some of these folks get their license to drive from a "cracker jack" box as the surprize inside? If so, that would go a long way to explaining why some folks weave across multiple lanes of traffic, speed at up to 2x the limit or more, chat on the cell-phone, read the newspaper, etc., etc., etc., while they drive! While I've done what I can to stop this (including driving the speed limit, being curteous to other drivers, no longer driving through red-lights, etc.), it's time everyone else get involved and be better examples to everyone else.

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Supporting Your Local Farragut Businesses, Part 2

2005-06-20T08:09:00.000-05:00

I have been told that I should practice what I preach! Well, get me a Target, Sears, Lowes, Best Buy, etc., so I can. How long are we as residents going to put up with the vacant K-Mart Building? We're seeing all the nice new development in Turkey Creek, but all we're seeing here in Farragut is more and more businesses leaving. I see that the old Europa Restaurant is being renovated and will be opening as a Thai Restaurant pretty soon, so that's good. But what about all the other boarded up and vacant businesses? What is our West Knox/Farragut Chamber of Commerce doing to get those filled? Or are they too busy promoting Knoxville's side of Turkey Creek? From a resident's Point Of View, it sure seems like it.

Anyway, please feel free let me know how my perception isn't reality.

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Attention All Movie Lovers!

2005-06-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I saw an ad in the KNS yesterday about the new Regal Pinnacle 18 that is opening up in Turkey Creek. From Monday, June 20th through June 22nd, they will be having $1 movies, $1 popcorn and $1 drinks! In addition, all the proceeds will be going to the Knoxville Charities! Monday will be for the Empty Stocking Fund, Tuesday for the Make a Wish Foundataion and Wednesday's Proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of ET Valley. So, movie lovers, here is your chance not only to see a "cheap movie", but to help out some worthy causes!

See y'all at the movies!

Also, Wednesday, they'll be having fireworks @ 9:45 PM

Have fun and enjoy.

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Buddy of mine in Farragut thinks he wants a roommate.

2005-06-14T08:39:00.000-05:00

I've got a friend that thinks he needs a roommate to make ends meet. Personally, his budget is just a little short and if he'd make some small adjustments to his budget he'd be fine. But he says he likes the way he's living so, in order to live that lifestyle, he needs a roommate.

I've told him my opinion, but agreed to ask for yours. He wants any and all stories, good or bad. He'll be looking at your entries, so let him have it. I appreciate your indulgence on this one!

FI

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Jigsaw Puzzles & Riddles

2005-06-09T22:25:00.000-05:00

Jigsaw puzzles & Riddles. Most people like jigsaw puzzles and riddles, at least I do. My only problem is a town should not be one of them. Someone made a comment to me a while back that our town is a large jigsaw puzzle. I didn't think so at first, but the more I look at it, the more I can see his point. From what I understood on Civic Planning, normal town development is from the center outward, right? Well, it seems that Farragut isn't developed that way. There are several places where there is no development within the town, but places on the outskirts where there are major developments. Anyway, my riddles are--why are these areas undeveloped? Why did we allow all those churches on Kingston Pike (ever try to get out without assistance after church on Sunday mornin')? Why have we got all those businesses that are boarded up when we're building more new commercial developments? Shouldn't we have 90%+ of our businesses filled before building more new businesses?

I really want to know what you all think...comment away

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Cheaters, Cheaters....I HATE Them!

2005-06-06T06:15:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or have I been seeing a lot of cheating going on around here lately? Whether its at Peters Road and Cedar Bluff (all those people in the LEFT TURN lane that decide that they want to go straight--you know who you are and should be ashamed of yourselves!), or those of you who cut out in front of me and my "stealth vehicle" (I swear as often as it happens I must be driving one!), or in the checkout line at the local store (someone actually tried this the other day and I only had ONE item), or even people having the audacity to change the price of an item IN the store! (I haven't seen this, but I've heard some friends of mine that work in retail talk about it), well I'm FLAT-OUT getting tired of it! Have people ignored common courtesy and deceny in their upbringing? Is their selfishness and self-concern really that overridding a factor that it's got to be satisfied before all others? I heard that this was the home of Southern Hospitality but all I see is rudeness, cheating and stuff I wouldn't associate with Southern Hospitality.

Anyway, I hope I am wrong, but please let me know...

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Outsourcing of Services

2005-06-03T06:37:00.000-05:00

The Mayor of Farragut said here that the town is not in the School Business, Police Business, Fire Protection Business, Utility Business, Garbage Disposal Business, etc. Well, I'd say that the town is an agent in those businesses, even if it decides not to be in those businesses. It simply decides that it prefers to outsource them. That is well within the town's right, but at what cost to it's residents?

I'm not saying that the town needs to implement a property tax.

However if you look at the current effects of outsourcing our services, we have--
1. Increased homeowner/auto insurance rates.
2. No real law enforcement/prevention (oh sure, we get a nibble here and there from our KCSD (and I'm not saying that they're doing a bad job, either), but nothing's been done to visibly cause change in speeding/crime in West Knox County)
3. No regulation on increases in Rural/Metro membership fees (which my HOA said went up AGAIN this year)
4. Over crowded schools with no plans for putting in new schools to increase capacity
5. Utility costs which continue to increase without any impedance from the town (I may be wrong here, but my costs have almost doubled in the 3 years I've lived in Farragut).

I believe it's time our leadership evaluated the real costs of outsourcing and determined if its better for us as a town to bring them partially or wholly in-house. If not, then we'd better start getting more value for what we as residents spend. After all, we as residents are spending real money here, aren't we?

If we want to continue improving our town, we need to start somewhere and I think bringing in new retail businesses (from which we can collect our portion of sales tax) is the way to go as this provides revenue for our town without impacting residents. That is, as long as we can get shoppers to spend time and money here in Farragut. After all, we've got vacant businesses that need to be filled, so we're not having to develop any new land for it. And as for the signage ordinance, I think the signs need to be more consistent (and maybe the town should provide some financial incentives to do so, like a tax credit equaling the cost of bringing the signs up-to-date).

Well, maybe y'all can think of other things to help our town (or say what you think is wrong with it), and maybe you can voice why I'm wrong in my perception. Comment and let me know.

Just remember, this is only an opinion, and if I can be convinced, it may change....

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The Isle of Farragut, Part 2

2005-06-01T19:30:00.000-05:00

I've linked back to the original post in the header in case you want to see it.

Well, oh my 19 responses other than my own. I didn't think I could cause such a stir! Anyway, I've noticed a few common threads going on there. Impact Fees/Urban Sprawl, Schools, Crime and Traffic. All of those threads pretty much point back at the town and it's leadership, don't they. Which direction to follow? Is it the right one? Are there other opportunities we could be missing along the way? Well, from the praises and the gripes, I've noticed that I end up with more questions than answers, and to be honest, I don't know if I'd be making the right decisions, either. This is why you elect leadership that hopefully takes our town in the right direction. However, back in March/April, when the town's election was held, only 16% of us voted (I was one of them). Would someone please tell me why this election is held in the oddest possible time in the first place? Also, would holding the election during a different time (like, the normal US election day--1st Tuesday in Nov.) make a difference?

Let me know!

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Signage, Signage, Signage...

2005-05-25T20:24:00.000-05:00

In the Farragut Press there is an article about the Cook's Grill which closed after being open 10 months. The owner, Walter Cook, cites the restrictive signage as a reason for failure. Well, you know what? I'm inclined to agree with him! How many businesses has Farragut lost due to its residents not even knowing that they exist? How many more are struggling? Well, I think it's time to make uniform signage a reality! I don't care if the signs are 6 feet, 10 feet or 100 feet high! Just make them uniform and in the same location in each and every business! Make the signs easy to change in cases where the business has changed, and even give business tax credits if need be, but get this done! Come on, this isn't rocket science. Just basic town branding. Also, halt all new commercial development until the current vacant sites are filled. It becomes rediculous to see boarded up businesses while new commercial buildings are built right down the street! And don't give me any 1/2 baked excuse that those businesses have unique needs that can only be filled by a new building. There are enough varied empty structures that can provide the needed space (and at a lower price than building new if truth be told)! Couldn't something like the Icearium have been done in the old K-Mart Building? How about that new Harley Davidson Dealership? Its time to think outside the box (and outside Turkey Creek)!

Just one man's opinion...

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Do we need a police department?

2005-05-21T13:18:00.000-05:00

I've heard people say that we don't have a need for a police department. Well, I came from a town with significantly less people (about 6,000 between the town and township), and they had a police department of 6 officers. Why? Because it directly affected the amount of crime and violence our town had. It also affects your homeowner's insurance rates for the better! Have you read the Farragut Press police reports section? That amount of crime, whether or not it's petty, deserves better attention by our town leaders. If they are unwilling to communicate with our Sheriff's department and get more than just one sheriff to patrol our beloved town, maybe it's time to fund our own. I personally think if we can get a couple more deputies we shouldn't need a police department. However, if we cannot come to some kind of an agreement with the KCSD, maybe we need to look into it.

Just my opinion, feel free to slam it if you wish....

The Isle of Farragut

2005-05-10T08:11:00.000-05:00

I keep hearing from people outside our town that Farragut is a stuck up little princess of a town that does things their own way and that if others don't like it, well, they can just kiss the town's "rear end". Lately, I can see why. We have over-crowded schools. We also have people that drive like they own the entire road, other people that drive like they are in the Farragut 500! As a result, we have the ever increasing problem of traffic accidents and injuries/fatalities. There is also no law enforcement for such a large number of residents (not to knock the KCSD, but they have to service an entire county, not just Farragut). There are businesses that give it a go, but the town doesn't support them (you can probably name at least 2 or 3), so they pack up and leave. Well, I'd better stop ranting before the establishment thinks I'm totally hating the town (which I'm not).

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Going off-line for a while...

2005-05-04T08:26:00.000-05:00

Due to a personal issue, I'm going to be off-line for a while. I may do the occasional post, but I'm going to be taking some time to work on my real life for a bit. I've linked the header with the blog "Can Farragut Change". So if you would just keep my in your prayers, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Thanks.
Farragut Independent
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Sunday Drive, Monday Gripe!

2005-05-02T08:34:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I was doing some shopping with my neighbors (the same neighbors that were involved in an accident last week) as well as touring their children who came in from out-of-town to visit. Well, I've been following the speed limit (Needless to say, my neighbors have been justifiably antsy and nervous after the accident) and have been driving more defensively than ever! Well, while we were out, not once, not twice, but THREE different times, people sped up behind us, went around us and cut us off only to be caught up at the next traffic light. I'm really getting tired of speaking on traffic challenges in West Knox County, but here I am again doing just that!

Is your desire to beat me to the next light that important? If so, call your local representative and tell them you want the speed limit increased! Otherwise, sit back and calm down! Otherwise, I will put in a paintball gun in my Sports Wagon!

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Self-Absorption by Cell Phone & Driving

2005-05-01T07:19:00.000-05:00

On Michael Science's blog, he talks about almost getting hit by a couple of drivers talking on their cell phones. Well, it seems like the insurance industry concurs with Mike on what appears to be an increasing problem nationwide. But is it worse in Knox County? Maybe, maybe not. The insurance guys are probably motivated by how much money they can save the companies they represent, but in this case, it's also a matter of how many injuries and deaths can also be prevented! That becomes a win-win for everyone because it eventually lowers your insurance rates (meaning more $$ in your pocket).

Personally, I think it's not just the cell phone usage, but the tailgating, speeding, and overall selfishness (and self-absorption) of drivers in Knox County. I'll admit, I use my cell phone to call my wife on her cell and tell her that I'm on my way to pick her up, but I have her on speed dial (she's #1), keep the conversation short (30 seconds or less) and I get off the phone and back to driving asap. Common sense should tell you that if you're going to spend a lot of time on a conversation, you pull over to a parking lot or some other place out of traffic's way.

Now if cell phone usage is banned while driving, then I'll observe the law, but I don't know if that measure is too extreme or not at this point. But I'll be the first to admit that it won't be the first time I've been wrong, and it won't be the last.

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Another Young Life Taken Away From Farragut

2005-04-27T07:51:00.000-05:00

Are we just willing to continue living with the status quo? The citizens of Farragut spoke (or didn't speak, to be more precise) and voted to continue with the status quo. Well, with the 3rd traffic fatality within the last 6 or 7 months, this is becoming all too familiar. And don't tell me that it's up to law enforcement or that kid's parents. The root cause is the community mentality which apparently is to speed, drink & drive, speak on the cell phone, apply makeup, eat, and read the paper (sometimes all at the same time!). That, and drivers who believe that they pretty much "own the road" with the bigger vehicles bullying the smaller ones.

Meanwhile, we're supposed to be courteous and share the road (doesn't matter if it's a Hummer, Big Rig, Vespa, Harley-Davidson, or even my Bicycle!). I mentioned on my other blog about what I'd do in a humorous way, but being serious, it's time we either fix what's really wrong (and I mean root-cause) with these roads, or we start heavily enforcing the speed limits within our town!

I know that there is a short period of time at the beginning of each board meeting and planning commission meeting where citizens can voice their concerns. Maybe it's time for all of us to start making time to do that. Ask for a road commission, safety commission, and other commissions to make our towm a better place. Sure it'd be a volunteer job, but you know what I think at this point anything to make our town better has to be considered.

Let me know if you feel differently.

I see that on one of my fellow Bloggers has issued a challenge here. I say we take him up on it!

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Looking for Good Ideas

2005-04-24T11:32:00.000-05:00

I'd like to know what people think is wrong about the town of Farragut and how to fix it. If you read my previous posts, you'll see what I consider to be wrong, but are the town leaders bold enough to listen to their residents and change things? I understand that we can talk about any topic at the beginning of each of the town meetings, but is 5 minutes long enough to really give those concerns anything more than lip service?

I'd like to see what you think. Comment and criticize away!

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Gas Prices and Budgets

2005-04-24T11:25:00.000-05:00

Arrgh!

I'm tired of spending 2.15+ per gallon for CHEAP gas. It's beginning to impact my budget! I put in a significant amount of cash each week just to keep my modest sports wagon full of gas. Pretty soon, my wife and I will be stopping our usual visits to our favorite restaurants, going out to the mountains, shopping, etc., because it's too expensive to drive. I'm already looking at having things shipped to my home rather than going to stores because it'll mean less cost overall.

What are y'all doing? Comment and let me know.

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Overcrowded Schools still a problem in Knox County

2005-04-22T20:00:00.000-05:00

Now if you've got kids & you're reading the title above and are shocked by it, please tell me where you've been hiding so I can join you.

With all the press (Farragut and KNS) and the passing of a Wheel Tax to build a new High School, I would have thought that this should have been "fast-tracked" through. But all I'm hearing is the same old stories about the raising of taxes for things, but few if no results. In the Farragut Press, someone actually had the guts to ask for an accounting of where that Wheel Tax money has gone/is going, and I'm glad he's asked. After all, as a taxpayer, he has that right and the county should give it to him and to all of us that live here.

Also, aren't our Primary and Middle schools just as crowded? Where are the new schools or their plans? Can someone please tell me why there hasn't been any planning for new schools?

If you don't think our county leadership isn't accountable, well it's up to you to make them.

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Virtue Road Comments in Farragut Press

2005-04-21T06:20:00.000-05:00

Well, if you've been reading the FP, you've seen many comments about this road. This is a safe road as long as you follow the speed limit and observe common courtesy. As a concerned resident of the town, I've voiced my opinion here, and it's to create reasons to follow the speed limit (in other words, traffic calming). The time has come for Farragut and East Tennessee in General to get off the "build it bigger and faster" mentality. All we've done is create an environment where people continually speed up and down Virtue Road, Kingston Pike, Pellissippi Parkway, I-40, Middlebrook Pike, Parkside Drive/Grigsby Chapel Road, etc. And when someone gets hurt or dies, we all become outraged, but what have we done to slow ourselves? I have started to drive no faster than 5 mph over the speed limit, even though I know that has caused many people to get mad. Well guess what, gaining 15 seconds by speeding through town doesn't get you much in terms of quality of life. Besides, what do you do with that time? Wait at a stop light! Trust me, I've seen it happen time & time again on Parkside Drive. Some guy zooms by me @ 50+mph (I've seen them drive by @ 70mph) and I catch up to him at the next light. But until we get off this mentality that we need to get there first, we're going to continue seeing articles in the paper where people get hurt.

Parents, your children will do exactly the same things you do, so what is your example saying to them when you speed, cut people off, etc.? They're the ones who suffer, because they really haven't mastered the art of driving. My father when he taught me how to drive, said "take it easy, get there safe--it's better than not getting there at all." He did speed on occasion, but usually not in or through towns.

I think its time to get a campaign going to slow the roads down and get people being courteous again, don't you?

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Support Local Farragut Business

2005-04-20T06:34:00.000-05:00

This post is basically to point you to the website for our local Farragut/West Knox Chamber of Commerce. We've got to really start supporting the business community in Farragut. After all, the only other major source of revenue after the shared taxes we get back are from local sales taxes. If the residents want to continue without any property taxes, we're going to have to spend more money in our own town. For the past few years, the FBMA has had to dip into the "rainy day" fund to balance the budget. If I understand correctly, that's the $7.5 Million that they've been dipping into (which means there was even more there to begin with!). If we don't increase the towns revenue, pretty soon that fund will be dried up and you know where that could lead.

Start supporting your local businesses today!

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The Gondolier in Farragut!

2005-04-19T08:06:00.000-05:00

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, you should know by now that the Gondolier in Farragut is now open in the West End over by SuperPetz. Good food, cozy atmosphere, and of course, all those home made desserts! My wife and I stopped in for dinner with our neighbors a few days ago, and it was Jam Packed! Tip: If you don't want to wait in line go in during a weeknight or for lunch. But as with all the other Gondolier restaurants in the area, the food is delicious! And even with a full house, service is quick and friendly, that is, once you're seated. About the only thing they could use is a way to tell customers that their table is ready.

Head on over and experience Farragut's newest restaurant!

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Business as usual...

2005-04-18T06:54:00.000-05:00

The opinion in the Farragut Press is absolutely correct when they hope that some of the innovative ideas will be taken into consideration. Let's just hope that the FBMA actually decides to do something positive for a change. Now if they choose not to, it will be up to the citizens to hold them accountable. Notice, I didn't say voters (mainly because only 16% of registered voters actually voted in this election and it was a RECORD for turnout!). Well, citizens of Farragut, will you start getting involved and participate? Or will it be business as usual? As always, I'm open to hearing your comments...

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Try being Governor!

2005-04-14T17:48:00.000-05:00

Try being a Governor and craft a budget.

Ever wonder how hard it is be the Mayor, Governor or President?Well go to this link and find out how hard it is to craft a balanced budget. Well, I tried and gave up after 3 rounds. I thought it'd be easy, you know smooze a few legislators, submit a budget that people could live with and be the next President. Boy was I wrong! It is such a tightrope walk trying to balance the needs of your state while facing an income shortage. Too bad we can't be like the Federal Government and raise our own Credit Limit (otherwise known as the debt ceiling)!Try it out and let me know if you were successful!
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Tax Day Already??? Ugh!

2005-04-14T11:55:00.000-05:00

As one who just finally finished his taxes, I'm about ready to scream! I had no idea that 45,600+ pages of tax code could make my life so miserable! Oh well, there are only 2 guarantees in life, aren't there....

I'm just glad I'm finally done!

Are you having a rough time of it? Or are you already done and spent that refund already (I'm jealous)? Or are you filing an extension?

BTW, as a reward, I will not be blogging until Sunday, so have a great weekend (to the 3 of you that actually read this)!

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Commerical Development in Farragut

2005-04-13T06:10:00.000-05:00

Everyone 'round here knows about the Turkey Creek Development, right? If you don't, please turn off your computer and come on out to West Knox County and exit on Lovell or Campbell Station Rd. On Parkside drive between those 2 roads, you'll notice that on the Knoxville side there is a Wal-Mart, Knoxville's only Super-Target (although there are rumors for more of those to come), Olive Garden, Steak-n-Shake (as well as many other businesses), and a Multiplex and Proffits (and more restaurants, too) are being built. On the Farragut side, we currently have an office complex in process, along with 2 banks and a gas station already built.

My beef isn't the fact that there is a lack of development on the Farragut side. It's the fact that the town is creating new development while there are boarded up businesses on Kingston Pike as well as a boarded up mall on the North side of Lovell Road. Common sense tells me that the town should not be creating new commercial developments BEFORE filling up (I'd say at least 85% full) the current commercial areas that we have. Shouldn't the town either bring in new businesses to replace those BEFORE developing new areas? It's not like Kingston Pike isn't a great road to do shopping on, is it? Or should the town re-zone some of those areas? Got any ideas? Comment and be imaginative! Who knows, you may end up with something that's totally genius!

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Day After Yesterday....

2005-04-06T08:35:00.000-05:00

Well, the election in Farragut came and went. Out of almost 15,000 registered voters less than 2,500 of you all showed up to vote. That means 5 out of 6 people in the town didn't exercise their right as citizens. I know that many of you probably didn't even know that there was an election going on despite the signs, newspapers, and occasional (and I do mean occasional) radio and tv announcement. However, the time has come to keep our elected officials honest and make sure that we keep ourselves involved in the community and it's needs. That includes safer roads and streets, more communication and collaboration with our surrounding neighbors, and more activities that our local residents can take advantage of.

Congratulations to Mayor Ford, Aldermen Mike Haynes and Tom Rosseel for their wins in this election and I wish them all the best in their terms that they may be able to keep our beloved town moving forward.

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Election Day

2005-04-04T07:18:00.000-05:00

Hear Ye, Hear Ye...o.k. Listen up all y'all...
Tuesday (April 5) is the day that Farragut finally gets a say in which direction the residents want to go. Do you like the way things are, or do you think there needs to be a change? Well, either way make your voice heard by your vote tomorrow. If you don't vote, don't complain if you don't like what happens next. Voting will be from 8a-8p at Farragut High. GO VOTE!
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Village Green Festival

2005-04-01T21:56:00.000-05:00

For those of you who like arts and crafts, head on over to the Village Green Shopping Center in Farragut. This weekend, they're having a sidewalk sale as well as other events (including a rock wall, fun stuff for the kids and a car show from what I understand). Head out, have some fun and support your community!
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Campbell Station Road Project

2005-03-29T07:38:00.000-05:00

Would the FBMA please justify their extension of Campbell Station road?

Why create a "cut-through" that by-passes a significant portion of our businesses?
Why does it need to be 5-lanes?
Are there plans to expand the section of CSR between Kingston Pike and Grigsby Chapel?
If so, then why increase the danger to our Primary School Children, Library and Park patrons as well as our High School Students (the back entrance to Farragut High is on CSR).
If not, how are you going to control the speed and safety on this section of road as drivers already do things to "cut-in" when it goes from 5-lane to 3-lane (including speeding way over the limit)?

And don't respond that the planner said it would be fine to build it here. The people I've talked with (that have some common sense) agree that you're either going to have many more near misses and some nasty accidents involving children or their parents. I know that CSR is an exit off the interstate, but it's primarily to be used to access our neighborhoods and businesses, not to cut through our town. If you wanted to create a "raceway", then build an oval or a dragstip and let them race on it, but not through my neighborhood, o.k.

For those of you who don't believe me, just head over to the Knox County Library in Farragut and just sit in the parking lot for 20-30 minutes during rush hour or before/after school and watch. If you're not convinced, comment and say why.

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Election Time

2005-03-26T19:17:00.000-05:00

If you haven't already voted. Please take a few minutes to do so. So far, early voting has averaged about 90-100 votes per DAY! With an electorate of almost 15,000, we need to get voting. It only takes about 5 minutes and allows your voice to be heard in terms of the direction you want your town to move. If you read my letter to the Editor in the Farragut Press, I said "get involved or don't complain". So GO VOTE!

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The 1st post of An Independent Voice....

2005-03-25T09:31:00.000-05:00

Today, I start this blog for the citizens of Farragut to voice their opinions, events, comments, etc. about the town and it's leadership. This is not to be used as a forum to slander, demean, or otherwise dehumanize another person. Therefore, you may NOT post anonymously. If you are under 13, you should really have your parents look over what you would like to post and let them post it on your behalf. I personally believe that kids should be able to say what they want, but they're going to have to learn to take the consequences of those actions; which, as we all know, on the internet could be very devastating to a young person. That's why parent's need to be involved. I myself am a relatively new resident of the Town (if you call 2.5 years new), but I plan on being involved in it for as long as I am here. Anyway, welcome, one and all. If you would like to become an authorized editor to this blog, please send me an e-mail along with the basic 411, and I'll contact you. Or if you want me to post an event, e-mail it and I'll post it within a day or so.
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