Happy Birthday

This story from the Knoxville News Sentinel details how the Gideon's are celebrating 100 years of Bible distribution. Happy Birthday and Thank God they exist. I remember when I was like in second or third grade in a Knox County School, Sunnyview Elementary at the time (now Sunnyview Primary) that we had a school assembly and they gave out new testaments. But that was before the liberals led by Madeline Murray O'Hara ran God out of the school house.

I always enjoy seeing the Gideon's down on the UT campus handing out New Testaments to the College students. God is there.

Many lives have been changed. Many suicides have been avoided because of the hotel Bibles left by the Gideon's.

Imitation is the Greatest Form of Flattery

Welcome this new blog into the blogosphere, the water and air is warm.

Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn

I just finished the next Vince Flynn book in the series. As I have posted here before, I am reading the books in the order of their release. This book is the largest book, however, the emotions of the story of Mitch Rapp takes many different turns.

The political power struggle continued in Washington with the politicians all trying to protect their own selfish ambitions. In this book, Mitch Rapp becomes the focus of radical extremists that have placed a bounty on his head. As of this point, this is my favorite.

Let’s review all the other books Term Limits, Transfer of Power, The Third Option, Separation of Power, Executive Power, Memorial Day and now this one Consent to Kill. Next up is Act of Treason. However, I am going to take a brief break and read the two books that I received for Christmas 2008. First up will be Former Republican Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee’s Do the Right Thing and then Ted Turner’s book Call Me Ted.

Check out Vince Flynn’s website, here

New Blog in the Blogopshere

Here is a new blog in the blogosphere. What drew our attention to this blog? This excellent post concerning Jack McElroy, Scripps and Wall Street. Now, Brian's Blog doesn't feel like the lone voice in the blogopshere.

39 Years Ago Yesterday

Thirty Nine years ago yesterday, Arthur Blessitt (the originator of The Jesus Movement) set out on a journey across America carrying a cross. 38 years later, 315 countries and more than 38,000 miles walked, Arthur Blessit concluded his journey in June of 2008.

I recently received an advance copy of his forthcoming book, The Cross. I have finished reading the advance copy and will be posting about it prior to the books release of January 6,2009. In March of 2009 a movie will also release in theaters.

In the meantime, Check out Arthur Blessitt's website here.

Have Yourself a Merry Little 2008 Christmas!

Brian Hornback and the entire Brian's Blog team of sources wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas. Santa is fun, Christmas shopping is a blast. But along with all the fun that we all have, let's also remember and spend some quality time reflecting on the Reason for the Season!

Arnett Leaves Work Early?

On December 15, 2008 one of our sources attended the Knox County Commission meeting. Our source indicated that as they were walking to the City County Building at 12:30 p.m. Arnett's car was parked in his designated spot. When they walked back to their car at 2:41 p.m. they noted that Arnett had obviously left.

Did he go home early? Did he go to do his Christmas shopping? He was not at his office. He was not recording the actions of the Commission meeting, which is the responsibility of his office. It appears that voters will need to start reporting the whereabouts of one Foster Arnett.

So if he is not going to be at his office and he is going to tow any vehicles parked here. Shouldn't Knox County make this parking space available to handicapped citizens instead of making them park two blocks away and traveling to the courthouse passing this unused parking space? What is the value of this parking space? Should it be reported as income to Arnett? After all it is a work perk that has monetary value.

Seventh District County Commission Candidates

O.k. if Seventh District Commissioner Smith gets his way with his cronies on Commission. They will be appointing someone to fill Commissioner Scott Moore's seat until the appeal of his ouster is successful.

First, we have James McMillian a formerly unsuccessful candidate to Smith so he is not likely to gain enough support to win the nomination. Then we have Michelle Carringer an employee of General Sessions Court Clerk Cathy Quist and the daughter of the Knox GOP Chair Irene McCrary. Certainly a violation of cronyism. Then there is Chuck Severance, son of former Mike Ragsdale and Tommy Schumpert employee Phyllis Severance and member of the Knox County Greens Committee (aka free golf). This would be another violation of cronyism.

That leaves Lillian Williams, successful Powell businesswoman and now enter Steve Ross. Here is some information on Mr. Ross.

Mr. Ross and his family have lived in District 7 since moving to Tennessee in 2001. He has witnessed the Knox County Government since being here and he believes that there have been both good and bad decisions.

He recognizes that "times are changing and it seems now more than ever, people are out for themselves other than putting others first. This trend of self service appears to flow from every professional level of public life. Someone needs to stand against this current and change the flow of this impending flood of selfishness. Government officials are to serve as a voice for the people and not to achieve personal gain."

During his adult life, he has worked in both the private and public sector including the food industry, construction, landscaping, law enforcement and medical fields. He has been a successful local business owner. He has served in the military of which he was honorably discharged. He has worked digging ditches and protected personnel occupying the highest levels of government and other leaders. He currently manages a successful outpatient medical center. Along with his professional position, he also serves the community as a Deacon in a local church, and believes honesty and integrity are required for leadership at all levels of public life. He believes that based on his work history, his service to the community and desire to serve that he would be the best choice to serve District 7.

He advised the Knox County Commission several weeks ago of his desire to be selected as Commissioner for District 7. He has no family members in the Knox County Government. For that matter he has no family or close friends in any level of city, county or state government. It is his desire to serve everyone in the district not just a select few. He believes that someone needs to stand against the current, if selected, he will.

Wamp Leads Haslam in East Tennessee

Sources near the Zach Wamp organization indicate that a recent poll was conducted by The Tarrance Group. The poll surveyed individuals within the First, Second and Third Congressional districts. Potential candidate Bill Frist was not listed in the poll. Congressman Wamp polled a positive 48%. Out of that 48% Wamp 24% of respondents indicated that they would definitely support Wamp. Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam polled a positive 20%.

It would appear from early indications that Wamp is the strongest candidate for Governor from and within East Tennessee. Those of us that have experience with statewide election rodeos for multiple cycles know that winning statewide is about who carries the most votes across the plateau. Obviously Haslam has an ability to raise money at the three or four Haslam kitchen tables and with the mega donors of the University of Tennessee, that his father can influence. But can Haslam overcome the effect of a popular, conservative Congressman that out polls the Knoxville Mayor in his own district.

And We Care. Why?

This story from Knoxville's News-Sentinel. We Care? Why? So, if you are a Titan's fan, a Colt's fan, a Cowboy's fan or any other NFL team fan except a Steeler's fan. The message is that we are supposed to go anywhere else except a Pilot Travel Center. Because we wouldn't want the profits from our purchases supporting the enemy. Right? Right! O.k. Next non issue of the day.

Seventh District Commissioner Smith Campaigns At School Event

Last night the Halls Middle School chorus had their Christmas concert. Seventh District Commissioner Smith made a presentation where he gave his commission paycheck to the school. During his campaign in 2006 he pledged to give his commission salary minus taxes and expenses to schools and non-profits and each year it seems that he has given it to them. But, this is the first year that he has made a formal presentation during this school program.

So what has changed? Oh wait, he is still thinking about running for county mayor isn't he? That would explain his sudden public display of philanthropy, now wouldn't it?

Also, how prepared was Smith on the issue of the liquor by the drink fiasco. So, who didn't do their homework? Did the Commissioner not even look up state laws about this? Does this make him look bad? NO. It just makes him look like the ribbon cutting, camera hogging county commissioner (Mayoral hopeful) that he is.

Smith has cited and brags about his scouting involvement. He is an Eagle Scout as I am as well. But on the liquor by the drink issue Smith has violated the scout motto, Be Prepared.

It Will Be Black Wednesday All Over Again

Last evening the Knox County Commission decided that on January 26, 2009 they will replace Commissioner Scott Moore. Nearly two years ago, January 31, 2007 a day that Knox County Commission attempted to replace term limited officials. Following that day, Walter Wojnar named it Black Wednesday. The Knoxville News Sentinel and nearly everyone else took the term as their own.

The 2009 version of Black Wednesday will happen if and when the Knox County Commission appoints Michele Carringer to the Seventh District Commission Seat. First as we have already pointed out it will smack of cronyism as she is the daughter of Knox County Republican Party Chair Irene McCrary.

The second flashback to Black Wednesday 2007 will be that it will result in an appointee that is currently employed by the Knox County General Sessions, Circuit and Juvenile Court Clerk's office. On Black Wednesday 2007 Cathy Quist employee Sharon Cawood was appointed and now if Carringer is appointed it would result in another Cathy Quist employee being appointed. Today, we confirmed with three Brian's Blog sources that Carringer is employed in Quist's office.

So, Black Wednesday 2009. Here we come!

Reaction to County Commission Meeting

Last night the Knox County Commission debated and ultimately voted on earmarking dollars for the Minvilla Manor, a homeless housing facility to be located in the former Fifth Avenue Motel at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Broadway.

The minority opposition was led by County Commissioner Mark Harmon. Former County Commission candidate Walter Wojnar in response said. “How ironic is it that the biggest bleeding heart liberal on County Commission desires to put restrictions on the homeless.”

Knox County School Board Ignores Public During A Public Meeting

After a three hour School Board workshop the Knox County School Board had a public forum on it's agenda. Two ladies addressed the school board during public forum. The board even extended an additional minute or two for the speakers to finish their remarks. As a third lady walked to the podium, a motion was quickly and hastily made to adjourn. The lady shocked that she was ignored and said this is a public forum and I have sat here for three hours.

The School Board Chair, Indya Kincannon said well, you didn't sign up and I don't know what you are going to speak about. What a minute. The School Board Chair MUST first screen the content of public comments to be addressed on public forum? You have got to be kidding me.

In a show of police force, Knox County School Security Chief approached the lady saying that she must sit down as she must sign up prior to the meeting. The lady said that she didn't know that and would like to speak. The Board Chair said I will speak with you individually. So, does that mean that the Board Chair will then violate the sunshine law in informing each board member what the lady said?

As the camera continued to roll, arrangements were made for a picture to be taken in front of the Christmas tree. Christmas gifts were given to the school board secretary from the school board and everyone was going around wishing each other a Merry Christmas.

Everyone likely will have a Merry Christmas except for that one lady that did not get her first amendment to free speech at a public forum and was instead exposed to the strong arm of police tactics from a law enforcement imitator.

The County Commission to Replace Moore

The Knox County Commission in a grab of power will select a replacement for Commissioner Scott Moore in January 2009. Although Moore has filed an appeal of the ouster decision.

Commissioner R. Larry Smith stated "this is about serving the public." Too bad, R. Larry doesn't understand that concept as he has used his position as Commissioner as a self serving power grab to assist his struggling insurance business. Once telling Commissioner Paul Pinkston during a commission meeting that he would be selling Pinkston insurance.

Sources indicate that perjury violator R. Larry Smith has informed a few individuals that he will be voting for Chuck Severance. A vote for Chuck Severance will be a vote for cronyism. Severance's mother worked for Knox County Mayors Tom Schumpert and Mike Ragsdale. A vote for Michelle Carringer also will be a vote for cronyism , as Michele's mother is Knox County Republican Party Chair Irene McCrary.

That leaves former Smith opponent James McMillian or successful Powell businesswoman Lillian Williams. It seems that Smith has made public statements in the past that he does his homework and cast informed votes. It seems on this one, R. Larry is all about cronyism.

Bill Lockett is Unprepared

Tonight at the Knox County Commission meeting an item for discussion was the possible replacement of Scott Moore on County Commission during his appeal of the ouster suit. Lockett asked the committees to defer as he would have a statement prior to taking action. His statement was about a case out of Cocke County entitled Baker.

County Commissioner Mike Hammond asked Lockett about a law that passed last year in the Tennessee General Assembly that made it mandatory for a replacement to be selected within 120 days. Lockett said he did not know and would have to check. They delayed the item until later in the meeting to accommodate Lockett's sloppy work.

I am an Eagle Scout. My Eagle Scout was awarded in 1984. Mr. Lockett was photographed in his campaign material as a Boy Scout leader. The Scout motto, "Be Prepared". Mr. Lockett failed the Scout motto today.

Tony Norman and Mark Harmon are Anti-Church

There is an item on the Commission agenda involving a church. The rules of the Commission are that a representative must be present. There was a motion to suspend the rules and approve the item. 14 Commissioners voted to suspend the rules. 2 did not. Commissioners Tony Norman and Mark Harmon are anti-church.

Knox County Property Assessor At Commission Meeting

UPDATE: 6:04 p.m. The PILOT/TIF audit is an item for discussion on tonight's Commission agenda. An item that the Property Assessor should/could/would have an interest. However, doesn't it make sense that he should/could/would do his real job until the item comes up for discussion? Which by the way did not come up until 5:30 p.m.

This afternoon our sources indicate that former County Commissioner and current Property Assessor Phil Ballard was sitting at the Knox County Commission meeting during normal business hours. Someone may need to tell him that he is the Property Assessor and that the task of re-appraisal is coming up in 2009. The taxpayers are paying his salary to run the office of Property Assessor and not sitting in the Knox County Commission meeting. He could do like all the other Knox County employees and watch the commission meeting in their City-County Building office on their televisions on Comcast cable.

Knox County Taxpayer Employees are NOW Beer Distributors

Doug Bataille, Knox County Parks and Recreation Director appeared before the Knox County Beer Board. The Knox County Beer Board is Chaired by Commissioner R. Larry Smith, the next Commissioner to be ousted for perjury.

The Knox County owned Three Ridges Golf Courses had since the year 2000 contracted the the food and beverage/beer operation. The beer board approved that Knox County employees will now be distributors of alcohol.

So, when someone becomes intoxicated and causes a death due to driving while intoxicated the lawsuit can be filed against us the taxpayers of Knox County, Doug Bataille and Beer Board Chairman and perjury offender R. Larry Smith.

Why Is Everyone "Skeered" of Bill Frist

This story in today's News Sentinel has me wondering why everyone is "skeered" of Bill Frist. Bill Gibbons of Memphis, U.S. Congressman Zach Wamp of Chattanooga have said they will run, if Frist doesn't. Congressman Marsha Blackburn, Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey are beginning to dance as candidates for Governor if Frist doesn't run.

I do not understand the fear that Frist sends through these people. The last thing we need is an executive level elected official that is willing to cave into wishes of one former Senator. If you want to lead then get out there. If you want to be the groomsman instead of the groom, then act skeered. There is no honor in being your own skeered self.

If Frist were to run for Governor and unfortunately he was elected, he would last about 36 hours. Nashville would chew him up and spit him out.

However, for the record, my prediction on this the 15th day of December, 2008 at 6:30 a.m. is that Bill Frist is too skeered himself to run for Governor. He will NOT do it.

Chip Saltsman for RNC Chairman

Here at Brian's Blog our focus occasionally is on the internal workings of the Republican Party. The KnoxGOP is an organization that within the past one and a half years has suffered from it's own dysfunction. It can only be corrected when the party reconvenes in March and selects a true leader. The TNGOP is being well run by Chair Robin Smith. However, the Republican National Committee needs a new vision, a new passion, a new focus. With an Obama/Biden leadership team taking over the executive branch and with our 41 Senators in the U.S, Senate that is not enough.

The best chance the National Republican Party has is to select native Tennessean Chip Saltsman as the next RNC Chairman. The next opportunity to take the U.S. House and Senate in 2010. Chip directed the Mike Huckabee campaign for President. Granted Huckabee came in second behind John McCain but the McCainsters do not have anyone that can step in and lead. They are all still arguing about the loss to Obama and the handling of Palin.

So, let the RNC members know that Chip Saltsman is our best effort at correcting the ship. If not, we will all be standing on the Titanic moving the chairs talking about being uniters and not dividers, they same ones talking a good game about being Compassionate Conservatives. But in reality they give away our tax money like drunken, drug users in an adult strip bar.

There is ONLY ONE Consistent Conservative and he can not clone himself 434 times.

As for me, without real leadership being put in place, I will consider jumping from the ship in March 2009 and swimming for the nearest island.

Here is the page to select your state and determine who your RNC members are. In Tennessee Mr. John Ryder and Mrs. Peggy Lambert are our RNC Committee members. Contact the TN party office by phone: (615) 269-4260 or fax: (615) 269-4260 or website and ask for the contact information for Ryder and Lambert.

Knox County Schools Only Concern is the Money

Yesterday, Hardin Valley Academy was without power for over two and a half hours before dismissing them home for the day.

This morning West Valley Middle School was without power for more than one and a half hours.

How much work can be done in a class room with limited outside light? Today there was little outside light. How much classroom instruction can be instructed without a smart board, laptops, computers and DVD players?

Why do Knox County Schools say at 9:00 a.m. that "policy states they must be without power for three hours before dismissing the students, early"? Because the School System does not receive the state funds for the students until 11:15 a.m. for Elementary and 12:00 noon for Middle and High School students.

So, now we know the real motivation. It is not about the kids or what's best for the kids. It is all about the money. Revenue producing kids. That's what it is all about.

Conservative Values Matter

R. Larry Smith Joins Mike Hammond in Unethical Behavior

As we reported a few weeks ago, Mike Hammond has produced and used his voice on a Phillips Construction radio commercial. Certainly an ethical question of an unsportsmanlike nature.

Now, a review of Cariten television commercials reveal that R. Larry Smith, a licensed insurance agency director and County Commissioner is standing on camera with potential clients. In a Brian's Blog interview with the Director of Knox County Human Resources it was revealed that Cariten was Knox County's provider until January 1, 2008. So, they were the county's selected vendor from September 1, 2006 - December 31, 2007 during R. Larry's term of office. They will be eligible for re-bidding their services when the contract is up for renewal. So, now R. Larry has reached unethical proportions.

Within the next week, the evidence of R. Larry perjuring himself will be presented and a ouster suit will be sought. Sources indicate that in addition to an ouster suit that R. Larry may also face a civil case of slander.

The Cross Movie - A Forty Year Journey

This appears to be a GREAT movie to be released March 27, 2009. I will be there. I hope to see you in the audience. I remember Arthur Blessit from the 1970's. What a great story of an obedient follower of Christ.

The Cross Movie - Arthur Blessitt Movie Trailer

Knox County Council PTA Has NO Effectiveness

On Wednesday many of our sources called to tell us that they had received emails and phone calls from their PTA's and from the Knox County Council PTA begging them to attend the Knox County School Board Meeting for Dr. McIntyre's 100 day report and vision for Knox County Schools. Their intent was to have a packed room in an effort to demonstrate that Knox County has passion for education. Their efforts didn't work, as the room was as empty as it normally is.

Dr. McIntyre, Most of us in Knox County do have a passion for education. We are not into dog and pony shows that contain empty words. We are not into supporting and wasting our time with a parent volunteer organization that does not properly reflect the views of the parents. An organization that enables one person to serve multiple years on the Great School Partnership Board without her holding the position that she is supposed to hold. An organization that in past years has not recorded it's income in and income out accurately because of their fear of showing that they had "too much" money.

So, Dr. McIntyre Say what you will do, Do what you say. Produce Results and not Rhetoric and Knox County will support you.

Congratulations to Knoxville Catholic

Knoxville Catholic High School got their first State Championship in the school's history. Congrats. A lot of the boys and their families I have known for years. Great deserving people.

On a sad note, Maryville High School's win streak of 74 straight wins came to an end today. With Hillsborough beating them for a state championship.

Alcoa won another State Championship last night. Congrats to them as well.

I am Disappointed

With this KNS story, I am disappointed in my friend Randy Nichols. At a minimum there was a violation of running a stop sign. When Mr. Nichols own wife was pulled over years ago. She had to serve 48 hours for a DUI stop.

This is unfortunate. We all make mistakes. When we do, we should pay the penalty for the mistake and move on.

I don't fault the officer for the decision he made to turn off his mike or for letting her drive around the corner, he made a rational decision while in a good mind. Part of me wishes that she would have either been driven home (which people would have criticized) or been made to have someone get out of bed and come pick her up and drive her home.

At the end of the day, Ms. District Attorney General employee has live with the stigma of having been publicly exposed. I just hope and pray for she and her family that in the future she will just say NO.

Hallerin Hilton Hill of Citadel Broadcasting Has Bias

This morning Hallerin Hilton Hill had Dr. James McIntyre on the show taking phone calls about Dr. McIntyre's 100 day assessment and vision for the future of Knox County Schools. I called in to ask a question. I told Chris Marion, the call screen er that I wanted to ask Dr. McIntyre to talk about the difference in private and public education in Knox County. Mr. Marion placed me on hold and they NEVER got to me. I was on hold for over 30 minutes.

Hallerin announced that he is producing a special broadcast for WBIR to air next Tuesday about this issue. Hallerin has a bias and did not allow my call on the air because he recognized his own hypocrisy. He talks the talk about doing what's right for public education but he has his own child in a private school. He and his daughter have even been featured on radio commercials promoting the family's private school.

When citizens of Tennessee send their child to a private school they are with holding tax dollars from the public school system. The private school does not receive those per student tax dollars. So, those tax dollars are diverted away from public education and spent on the penal system (penitentiary) welfare and other state run entities. So, those individuals having their children in private schools are enabling jails, welfare and other state interests.

And we wonder why the State of Tennessee is near dead last.

Saxby is Number 41

Yesterday the citizens of Georgia did the right thing. They re-elected Senator Saxby Chambliss to another term as their United States Senator. Chambliss and Democrat Jim Martin were unable to garner a 50% plus 1 vote total on November 4, 2008. So they both had to campaign in a run-off election that was held yesterday December 2, 2008.

Chambliss is now Republican Senator 41 which means that President-Elect Obama will NOT have the Super Majority of 60 in the United States Senate. So, yesterday and today are great days in America.

Congratulations to Senator Chambliss and all of his campaign team.

Memorial Day by Vince Flynn

I just finished the sixth book of Vince Flynn. He has written and published 10. I am reading them in the order of their publication. First was Term Limits, then Transfer of Power, then The Third Option, then Separation of Power, then Executive Power and now this one Memorial Day.

CIA Super agent Mitch Rapp is at it again. This time he discovers a plot to attack America on her soil with a nuclear bomb or two. It is a fast paced read and the adventure takes you from the middle east and over half of our country.

This year, CBS films optioned for movie rights for Flynn's counterterrorism operative Mitch Rapp, a character featured in eight of Flynn's nine best-selling novels. They have indicated that Mitch Rapp will be part of an action-thriller movie franchise. In addition, Simon & Schuster and Atria Books have also agreed to publish four of Flynn's books. The first will come out in 2010.

Now, on to Consent to Kill.

Hyams of Citadel Broadcasting & Hamilton of UT. Are they Classless?

The other day we posted about Jimmy Hyams and Mike Hamilton concerning the rumor of Lane Kiffin as the new head football coach at UT. We said then that neither could be believed. Now, after the actions of both. We are wondering if they actually worked in concert with one another to taint the final weekend of Phil Fulmer and the Fulmer family.

It did not go unnoticed that Hamilton was no where to be seen yesterday during the UT / KY football game. Hamilton was no where to be found when Fulmer ran through the T prior to the start of the ball game. Hamilton was no where to be found when Fulmer had his last interview on the field at the end of the game. Hamilton was no where to be found during the post game prayer. Hamilton was no where to be found when the Tennessee players carried Fulmer off the field.

Now, Hamilton is hiring a man named Lane Kiffin and I am willing to give Kiffin a chance, if and only if he does not hire Ed Orgeron. If he hires Orgeron, it will speak volumes about where the program is headed with Hamilton and Kiffin. Just go back and see how Orgeron did at Ole Miss. Not just wins and losses. But his players off field antics as well.



It is interesting to note that Hyams for the first time this morning has acknowledged that a hire of Ed Orgeron is a bad idea. Hyams has come to the thinking of Brian's Blog. However, his pre-mature exposure of the Lane Kiffin hiring in order to taint Phil Fulmer's last game and last weekend is deplorable and classless and if he did it in concert with Hamilton. That makes them both classless. But are we surprised?

Is the News Sentinel Lazy and/or Unethical?

In today's Knoxville News Sentinel and on their Go Vols Extra website this column from Marvin West appeared. West retired from Scripps Howard in the late 1990's. Mr. West was Sports Editor when the Sentinel was an honorable publication.

I find it interesting that this same column appeared on Sunday night November 23, 2008 on the Shopper News Now website and in their print edition on Monday November 24, 2008.

In the byline they list Marvin West Shopper News and mention at the end of the article his past affiliation with the Sentinel.

Now, the Shopper is an E.W. Scripps owned entity. However, the Editor's are separate. The News Sentinel with Jack McElroy and the Shopper with Sandra Clark. While I have issues with both in a head to head competition. McElroy comes up short.

Is the Sentinel so lazy that they waited three to four days to reprint a story from the Shopper? Is it ethical to re-print a story from a sister publication? If memory serves correctly Ms. Clark had her hand slapped and was forced to publicly apologize for lifting a photograph from the Sentinel a few years ago.

Inquiring minds need to know.

Not a Happy Thanksgiving for Former News Sentinel Employee

It appears that certain jobs earlier this month that were eliminated at the metal shed on the hill WERE NOT ELIMINATED! THEY WERE TRANSFERRED OVERSEAS!!

As a Brian's Blog team member, I was out in the community on the day before Thanksgiving and ran into someone that appeared gloomy. As I began talking to him and our conversation progressed, he told me he was recently laid off a few weeks ago as an employee in the graphics department of the Knox News Sentinel. He then went on to tell me that his position was outsourced overseas and that KNS outsources the work! He had worked there for at least two decades.

It appears our hard earned PILOT is not for jobs in Knoxville and Knox County. But it's for jobs overseas! Here is the press release. Please note they don't mention transferring jobs. It is sneaky but not sneaky enough for the Brian's Blog Team!

Today Knoxville Has Something To Be Thankful For

Yesterday at 4:00 p.m. the Knoxville radio station airwaves got a much needed change. This new entry into the Knoxville area radio station line up has been a long time coming. Thank You Journal Broadcasting Company. Now everybody change your preset buttons to Q93.

Mike Hamilton Says Mike Hammond's Company are Liars

Here UT Athletic Director Mike Hamilton says that any source saying the Head Football Coach position having been offered to Lane Kiffin is NOT accurate information. That means that Hamilton is alleging County Commissioner Mike Hammond's company is NOT trustworthy. Because it was a Citadel Broadcasting text alert that informed Brian's Blog that this was the fact according to their sources.

So, can you believe a company with erroneous sources and a company that employs a guy that has bad sources? Or can you believe a guy that assures Jan Petersen it is all o.k. and a day or two later axes her husband? Neither one is real reliable.

However, Hamilton is NOT a politician like Hammond is. So, time will tell. We will report here when Mike Hamilton names his choice for Head Football Coach who was right and who was lying.

Thank God for Guns - Denny Crane

I love Denny Crane! Denny Crane is played by William Shatner on ABC's television series Boston Legal. Most all of my friends that get personal emails from me always see a Denny Crane quote within my signature line. A buddy of mine emailed me this video. I wish that we had seen this before the election. But it is still relevant today. As we prepare to give thanks tomorrow for this country, our family, friends, heath, freedom of religion maybe we ought to add our thankfulness for guns.

If you are offended, oh well.

Mike Hammond Hits The Re-Do Button

This morning, Citadel Broadcasting Companies WOKI FM 98.7 began airing new Hammond voiceless commercials for Phillips Construction. Coincidence? Not likely. Since this post appeared on Brian's Blog this past Saturday. So, Hammond, Phillips Construction and/or Citadel Broadcasting hit a re-do button it appears. Not so easy. Not so fast. Not so simple. Once your conflicted, you are always conflicted.

Foster Arnett and the Clerk's Office Party on the Taxpayer's dime

Sources in and around the City County Building report that Foster Arnett authorized a party during business hours in the taxpayer's offices. It seems that Carolyn Heiskell, his Chief Deputy has unexpectedly decided to retire.

So, Foster got on the phone and invited friends, family and his County Clerk Cronies to come and eat cake and celebrate Carolyn's retirement.

Carolyn is a good person. She campaigned vigorously for Arnett. She told untold numbers of people how she had worked for 5 Knox County Clerk's and how she wanted Foster to be her next boss. It seems that from 9-1-2008 to 11-26-2008 as his Chief Deputy she has decided enough was enough. Time to go home and spend time with the husband and grand kids.

That Foster Arnett evidently ain't what he was cracked up to be.

Carolyn, you did good. Thank you for your years of service and 2010 ain't that far away to correct the problems and mistakes of 2008.

The Customer is Always Right...Except for the News Sentinel Customers

Since I was about 14 years old I have always worked. When I was a teenager, I would mow lawns, rake leaves and even had a newspaper delivery route using my bicycle. After school I worked in retail and then I became an Account Executive with a printing company and for more than 20 years I have worked as a Representative with two separate food companies. The one thing that has been consistent is that I have worked in a Customer Service oriented role. From the beginning I have always been taught and believe that the customer is always right. The Customer always comes First.

So, as I read the Sunday News Sentinel I was amazed that in his column, Jack McElroy would admit that the public reaction to the paper's redo was so negative. But I was completely shocked that he basically blew off the complaints when he said "I can't promise anything."

Many of the complaints are from women saying that they must now wait for the paper while their spouse reads their section first, because the Sentinel has combined their favorite section with the favorite section of their spouse. So, the Sentinel is contributing to marital discord? But, then again that would probably sell more papers so maybe there is a reason for their ignoring the customer complaints.

Mike Hammond is Conflicted.

County Commissioner Mike Hammond serves on Knox County's Board of Zoning Appeals. A position that hears zoning appeals, variances by numerous individuals, developers and builders.

One of our sources alerted us to a radio commercial that is in heavy rotation on Citadel Broadcasting Companies WOKI FM 98.7 "The Oldies". So we listened and sure enough the infamous voice of Mike Hammond is the voice for a radio commercial for Phillips Construction. This is a conflict of interest, either real or perceived but in this case perception is reality.

Congratulations to Catholic. Good Job Admirals

Congratulations to Catholic for beating Austin East 45-0 and advancing another position closer to a state championship.

Farragut Admirals fell one game short losing to rival Ooltewah 14 -7. Good job by the Admirals in going as far as they did this year.

Burchett Bologna Lunch

Yes, I attended the Burchett bologna lunch. Thank you to the wonderful people at the News Sentinel for recognizing lowly little 'ole me as an attendee.

For those of you not familiar with the Phillips Auction bologna cutting it is the best political event. The bread is the freshest bread. the bologna and tomatoes are to die for. The chips are Lays chips. But the dessert is RC Cola and Chocolate Moon Pie.

Howard, Kenny, Brian and all the Phillips put on a spread. Richard and Lillian Bean are always fixtures at the event.

On a sad note, missing today was my old buddy Ralph Teague. Ralph passed away this summer, but he was there in spirit. As soon as I hit the door, standing there was Cindy Teague, aka Mrs. Ralph Teague. Hugging Cindy and checking on her were great.

The event itself as always was good. It's a long time until May 2010, the primary election for Knox County Mayor. There will be other candidates and other bologna cuttings.

The News Sentinel PILOT

On Monday at the Knox County Commission meeting, former Knox County Property Assessor and current employee of the Assessor's office John Whitehead spoke about the News Sentinel PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes). It is reported that he said You have seen on the Internet rumors that the Sentinel owes $1.0 million in property taxes. It is not that much. It is likely $25,000.00.

First of all the only place on the Internet that has talked about the News Sentinel PILOT is here at Brian's Blog. So it would have been better for him to name us. But that's o.k. Secondly, it was only about two weeks ago that current Knox County Property Assessor Phil Ballard told three of our sources that the bill is in the neighborhood of $1.5 million dollars.

Of course it is to all the politicians benefit not to irritate the News Sentinel as they buy their ink by the barrels. So, it was overheard in the back of the main assembly room that by the time this is all said and done, Knox County will likely be paying the News Sentinel $25,000.00

Dr. McIntyre is the Fresh Bold Leader Knox County Schools Needed

From 1999-2007 the Knox County Superintendent of Schools was led by lack luster leadership. Dr. McIntyre tonight at the school board workshop began his Legacy of Leadership. The legacy of leadership that we called for this morning.

His comments via the NBC affiliate television stations website were. "While federal student privacy laws really restrict what I can say publicly about the individual students, I will say administrative action has been taken in suspending several students from playing in Austin-East's game against Catholic High School on Friday evening," McIntyre said.

"Any relevant information that comes to light, of course, will be considered between now and Friday."

"While I'm not at liberty to identify any of the students, I will say that I personally informed the young men of this decision this afternoon."

Thank you, Dr. McIntyre!

Dr. McIntyre’s Legacy of Leadership Begins TODAY!

Eight members of the Austin East High School football team have been arrested for shoplifting. The quotes from the Head Coach at Austin East are that this is not a school issue. That he has talked with the high school administration and the parents. What? You have got to be kidding me.

No word yet from Dr. Jim McIntyre or the Knox County Schools Central Office. From everything we have seen of Dr. McIntyre he is a stand up, take responsibility for your actions, we will correct the problem.

I believe in the end this incident and McIntyre’s handling of it will be the defining moment for his legacy of leadership with Knox County Schools. When athletes at any other Knox County high school have gotten into trouble in the past the coaches of those teams have suspended them.

When athletes have gotten into trouble at the University of Tennessee for off campus incidents there are penalties for their actions.

These students at Austin East have brought disgrace and dishonor to not only Austin East but to every Knox County public education student as a whole. They MUST be suspended from playing football for the remainder of this year. To allow them to play sends a message to EVERY student of public education in Knox County that the school district condones the behavior of violating the rules, the laws and at the end of the day that “Character Didn’t Count.”

A win on Friday night with players that have been arrested will forever taint the win and will send an unfavorable message about public education in Knox County. Monetary contributions to Knox County School PTA’s, Foundations and the like will likely suffer because of the school systems inaction.

The correct measure of disciplinary actions of Knox County today can prevent a similar incident from happening to these student athletes when they are in College. Dr. McIntyre needs to heed the advice of Barney Fife “Nip it, Nip it, Nip it in the bud.”

Help send the RIGHT message. Contact Dr. McIntyre by phone at 865-594-1620 or email and encourage him to make this HIS stand for establishing his Legacy of Leadership by forcing the players to be suspended for the rest of the year. After doing so call Austin East High School 865-594-3792 and ask for the Athletic Director or Principal and voice your views.

Here is the News Sentinel's story.

Knox County Schools Owes Backpay, Public Apology, Attorney Fees and Restoring This Man to His Status Prior to the Negative Press

In September 2007, the Knox County School system wronged an employee and now they owe former Halls High School teacher Corey DeHart back pay, his employment status renewed to its status prior to the public disclosure of an erroneous claim. They owe him Attorney fees. They owe the Halls community a public apology. An investigation needs to be launched in these constant leaking of erroneous claims on staff members. DeHart, Kim Kallenberg and the former Powell High School Principal DianePsihogios. Here is the story of the clearing of his name. The News Sentinel needs to stop sensationalizing stories like this and discontinuing the use of tabloid tactics when they receive these tips.

Dr. Jim McIntyre has to wonder why no one told him all these problems before hand.

More Questions on the News Sentinel's PILOT

Sources have informed us that the bond for the News Sentinel's PILOT, Payment In Lieu Of Taxes was $55 million. The appraisals for the News Sentinel is $16 million. This appraisal according to our sources include land, the metal shed on the hill, all equipment furnishings and supplies on the property. So, what happened to the other $39 million?

In addition, Don Parnell chairs the Knoxville Industrial Development Board (IDB) at the time Bill Lyons chaired the Board of KCDC. Lyons went on to the administration of the Mayor of the City of Knoxville in 2003. Parnell was a leader in Knox Charter Petition Group and Knox Accountability. The group that was successful in reducing the number of seats on County Commission. Any connection, there?

We are working to confirm other connections to the News Sentinel and parties involved in this issue. We are working to confirm that a sibling to one countywide elected official involved in this issue is employed at the News Sentinel.

Know Who Your Friends Are

The TIF/PILOT audit that is resulting in a the News Sentinel receiving a past due bill has been a contract with a firm TMA in Mt. Juliet, TN. The Knox County contract was signed in December last year. Commissioner Scott Moore started working on the idea of a TIF/PILOT audit six months before that.

He was talking with the representative yesterday about the audit and the auditor said, well I have been told that you are no longer a Commissioner. So I don't know what information that I can give you. Commissioner Moore said well, I am a Knox County citizen. Who told you that you shouldn't be talking to me? The auditor named two countywide elected officials. (Brian's Blog is embargoing the identities until a later date.)

Commissioner Moore will get the answers that he wants on Monday when the County Commission meets. He can and likely will address the auditor from the public podium during the Commission meeting.

Not So Fast, Knoxville

Today's news about the probable failure to finalize the sale of the Downtown Holiday Inn Select is interesting. It appears that the City of Knoxville may have celebrated the sale of the property too quickly, here and here. Either that or the ruling by Chancellor Fansler about the Convention Center hotel referendum was pre-mature, here and here.

A close friend and avid reader of Brian's Blog called us on the day of Chancellor Fansler's order and said "I bet Franklin Haney will stay." It seems that the Haney referendum (elected by a majority of the citizens of the City of Knoxville) is still alive and well.

What Is the News Sentinel Receiving a Past Due Tax Bill For?

There has been chatter (since we broke the story) about the Past Due Tax bill that the News Sentinel will be receiving for it's failure to comply with the PILOT, Payment In Lieu Of Taxes sweet heart deal. The property is not in the name of E.W. Scripps and/or the News Sentinel, is what some in our community has discovered.

We knew that, but failed to fully explain what the past due bill is for. According to our sources the Past Due bill is for taxes due on the value of the News Sentinel's "ME". This would be for the multi million dollar German made printing press, sales tax on the ink etc. etc.

After all the German made press is worth more than the metal shed on the hill that surrounds the press.

Here is another interesting note. the Knox County Charter prohibits Knox County from doing business with any entity that owes Knox County money. So, the foreclosure/auction/deed notices will have to be published elsewhere. And since the News Sentinel's parent company E. W. Scripps also owns the Shopper News, Metro Pulse and nearly every other weekly publication. Those publications will be left without necessary ad revenue. One of our sources indicated that it has become increasingly difficult for the News Sentinel to make the case for being "the" publication of general circulation for the government public notices as the Sentinel has increased its daily rate to 75 cents per copy and $2.00 for the Sunday paper. With this economy that keeps our Senior Citizens and low to median income citizens from being properly informed of the government public notices.

BREAKING NEWS: Moore Files Motion to Appeal Today

We scooped all media in Knoxville on November 7, 2008 with this announcement. We are scooping them all again at this moment. County Commissioner Scott Moore filed a motion to appeal the ouster suit ruling TODAY, November 12, 2008.

News Sentinel to Receive a Past Due Tax Bill At The Big Metal Shed On the Hill

Sources in the City County Building indicate that the News Sentinel is set to receive a PAST DUE tax bill for $1,000,000.00 (Yes, One Million dollars.) Other sources indicate that the tax bill could be for $2,000,000.00 and up.

Knox County Property Assessor Phil Ballard by state statute can go back 10 years on the collection of property tax. But our sources indicate that he is only going back to 2003.

All of this due in part to the News Sentinel's failure to honor their part of the PILOT, Payment In Lieu of Taxes. Corporate welfare funded by the taxpayers.

Biden and Biden in the U.S. Senate?

Joe Biden was elected to another six year term in the U.S. Senate and was elected Vice President of the United States on November 4, 2008. When he takes office as Vice President, the Democrat Governor of Delaware Ruth Ann Minner must appoint a successor until the next election. She doesn't have to look far. It is likely that she will tap the state's Attorney General. That would be one Joseph Robinette "Beau" Biden III.

As Vice President Joe Biden will sit as President of the U.S. Senate. With Beau Biden as one of two Senators from Delaware. That sets up a Father / Son duo serving at the same time in the U.S. Senate.

Our early prediction is that it will be so.

Bill Phillips Is Not Scared To Ask The Questions.

Bill Phillips at the Monday School Board workshop asked questions about a recent news story. In this week's Shopper News, he has an ad with his remarks published. The questions that he ask need to be answered. Will the News Sentinel and Attorney Greg Issacs answer the questions or will they simply try to ignore the issue?

The content of the letter in the ad is below.

Dear Knox County Citizens,

I have some comments about some negative press reports that have caused our parents and community members to question our school system and the education and the safety that their children receive in Knox County.

Tuesday, October 28, Knoxville News Sentinel Reporter Jamie Satterfi eld reported in that publication a quote by Attorney Gregory P. Isaacs that the boy “was being transported to a sex offender treatment program at Halls High School when the alleged rape occurred.” Also Reporter Satterfield quoted in her article, “that Knox County Juvenile Court officials were worried about the supervision of an 18-year-old boy who was being transported on the bus to attend sex offender treatment classes at Halls High School.” The story went on to quote Isaacs as saying, “The 18-year-old male student was in therapy for a sex crime related matter and has been characterized as a sexual predator.”

On Wednesday, Knoxville News Sentinel Reporter, J.J. Stambaugh reported an email statement from Knox County Schools Director of Public Affairs Russ Oaks denying the existence of a sex offender treatment program at Halls or any other Knox County School. At 7:25 p.m., Reporter Stambaugh updated his story with a response from Attorney Isaacs saying, “That he had never
claimed the school system operated such a program.”

So, the questions that I would like to ask on behalf of the Knox County Citizens who have their children in our school system are, did the News Sentinel intentionally sensationalize this story with tabloid tactics in order to sell newspapers or did Attorney Isaacs use a false statement in order to bring the school system into a false light to spread fear among the parents and citizens who entrust their children to us every day? These questions must be asked.

The News Sentinel and Attorney Isaacs owe this community the answers. In a day when newspapers demand accountability, the community served by that newspaper must likewise expect responsible reporting and journalistic ethics.

Here is the link to the Bearden edition of the Shopper News. The questions are located in a letter on page A6. In the Ftn City/Halls/Gibbs edition the ad is on page A10. In the Powell edition it is located on page B4. In the Farragut edition the ad is on page All.

"Dean" Burchett - We Will NEVER Forget You! Rest In Peace

Charles "Dean" Burchett at age 85 passed on to his eternal reward today. He served for more than 40 years as dean of students at University of Tennessee - Knoxville. In June, he suffered a serious stroke. "Dean" Burchett was a U.S. Marine veteran of World War II fighting in the Pacific theater.

He and Mrs. Burchett (Joyce) I just can't call her anything other than Mrs. Burchett are the parents of our State Senator Tim Burchett.

Williams Talks About Brian Hornback A Lot

Go to about 2:00 in the video and hear Susan Richardson Williams and her imagination of Brian Hornback. No basis for fact. As a matter of fact, the County Commission replacements happened on January 31, 2007. Brian Hornback stepped down as Republican Chairman in mid March of 2007. Surely if Hornback had been the player that Williams imagined back then. Why was he never asked to give a deposition in any of the court cases.

For the record, Walter Wojnar was the first to term January 31, 2007 "Black Wednesday" and then the News Sentinel and everybody else has used the term since. Royalty checks will be rolling into Wojnar since the copyright and trademark of the term belong to him.

SRW Needs a Job. She Wants To Be Knox County's Election Administrator

Here is the link to the photo. Our multiple sources within the WBIR family have informed us that conversations overheard at the station reveal that SRW (Susan Richardson Williams) wants the job of Knox County Election Administrator. A position currently held by Greg Mackay.

With Republican control of the State House and Senate all county election commissions in Tennessee will have 3 Republican Election Commissioners and 2 Democrat Election Commissioners. Currently and for the last hundred or so years, the Democrats have controlled the House and Senate and have held 3 Democrat Election Commissioners and 2 Republican Election Commissioners and these 5 individuals select the Administrator of Elections.

Now, why would Williams need a job? Because she has not reappointed to the TVA board. She is no longer a University of Tennessee Trustee. When her term expired in 2007. She does have a Public Relations firm, SRW and Associates. But our sources in the Oak Ridge area have informed us that her firm has been losing clients rapidly.

Williams is a former Tennessee Republican Party Chair (many, many moons ago), more recently she served as Personnel Commissioner for Tennessee "Income Tax" Governor Don Sundquist. She recently lobbied Knox County Commission on behalf of a second place bidder for the mulch facility in Solway. She was unsuccessful in lobbying Commission on behalf of her client, KnoxAg. She has more recently lobbied Knox County Commission on behalf of Chad Tindell for a vacant General Sessions Judge position. Tindell backed out as a candidate prior to the selection.

Sources close to Williams indicate that her strategy is to get close to the "right" side of the party in order to gain some grassroots support. She has recently been appearing as a weekly co-host of The Voice. The Voice is a daily radio call in talk show hosted by Conservatives Lloyd Daugherty and Kelvin Moxley. Lloyd is Chairman of the Tennessee Conservative Union a group that it is rumored Williams once labeled as "two guys and a fax machine."

In addition, our sources within the WBIR family indicate that it was Williams, her self that set up the Brian Hornback comment regarding the Becky Ruppe loss on election night. She turned to another panelist and said make a comment about Brian Hornback's support of Ruppe.

A final note to set the record straight on the Ruppe race. We have been in contact with officials with the Tennessee Republican Party in asking if they have found an endorsement for Becky Ruppe on Brian's Blog. They say they have NOT. We did endorse Chad Faulkner, the Republican elected to the State House representing Campbell and Union County. We asked them for their thoughts on our coverage. They indicated to us that it was clear and that we disclosed that Becky Ruppe and I have been personal friends for over eight years and that the coverage of Brian's Blog while slanted were not endorsements and not a violation of party rules. They also concur with us that the position of Brian Hornback in regards to Republican politics and the non-partisan coverage of Brian's Blog are separate entities. We welcome friends giving constructive suggestions of the coverage of Brian's Blog. We also appreciate and celebrate our clean bill of health in 2008.

Charter Amendment #4 = Elected School Superintendent

For the past several years the topic of an elected School Superintendent has been a HOT topic. Karen Carson, a 2004 school board candidate said that the public wants appointed Superintendents. A certain school board member (not Carson) was exposed in May here for scaring and distributing misinformation about the bill that narrowly lost this past year. It took Boss Hogg and Joe Armstrong to delay the bill for a day or two to kill it.

This next year Boss Hogg will be sitting in a seat on the floor and Joe Armstrong will be less than forceful. When the Republicans take the House with a NEW Speaker of the House and the Senate with a responsible Lt. Governor an elected Superintendent bill will come out of committee. It will make it to the House and Senate floor and it will pass. It will then come back to Knox County and again 72.49% of the people will give us an elected Superintendent.

It will NOT matter what the State PTA says about the matter. It will be what the people say, after all let the people vote. Brian's Blog is currently investigating the State, and Knox County PTA for possible by-law violations. As an organization they are to remain non-partisan and the issue of an elected Superintendent is a Democrat -v- Republican issue and could jeopardize their state and county charters.

While I have disagreed with my friend Georgiana Vines at the News Sentinel from time to time. Yesterday, she recognized and reported the facts. Here is her report. Here specifically is what she said. "Citizens Committed to Save Our Right to Vote, which opposed both amendments, appealed to those who feel strongly that voters' rights should not decrease. Many in this group would continue having the school superintendent elected rather than appointed by the school board as mandated by state law."

That is a lot of good news from the effects of the NEW Republican control of Tennessee.

A New Blog In The Brian's Blog Family

Check out our newest blog addition to the family of blogs in the Brian's Blog family. It is entitled Coach Cut. It will feature stories about our beloved former TN Offensive Coordinator David Cutcliffe. It currently has three videos. But our intent is to make up for missing most of this Duke football season and start following Coach Cut through Recruiting, Spring Practice and into next football season. We will work as hard as possible to follow Duke from right here in Big Orange Country.

Is The KNS Clearly Violating Their Corporate Welfare Deal NOW?

We have covered the questions about the News Sentinel's PILOT - Payment In Lieu Of Taxes here, here, here and here. They then meet with all the new elected officials, individually to show them how the PILOT was not "real money."

We reported some weeks ago about some advertising positions being laid off, here is the story. Then KNS HR office warned each employee in a memo the next day to keep information within the "family". They then advertised the same employee positions which was clearly an effort to lay off higher paid employees and replace them with lower paid entry level employees.

Then we broke the story of the KNS raising the rack prices. That didn't help.

So, today they lay off 50 people. Read their Press Release here.

When the City of Knoxville gave them their PILOT, it was to provide highly paid long term jobs. Now they have reneged on their end of the deal. When is it that the News Sentinel pays the citizens back for the corporate welfare?

Maybe they are trying to eliminate our multiple sources within the News Sentinel "family". Time will tell if they got everyone of them or not.

Johnny Majors - My Tale Is Told

Johnny Majors was interviewed on Monday November 3, 2008 on WVLT Volunteer TV Channel 8. His Tale Was Told. Here is that interview.

Phil Fulmer's Press Conference - Monday November 3, 2008 5:00 P.M.

If Charter Amendment 3 Passed. School Board Races Could Become Interesting

If Knox County Charter Amendment #3 passed. It will result in Commission being reduced nearly in half, that could open up considerable interest in the 5 School Board seats that will be open in 2010. It is likely that the NEW Commission districts will mirror the school board districts, because with the current school board districts, the Knox County population is currently divided into nine equal districts. So, Thomas Deakins would have to move into the Sixth district or sit out from 2010 until 2012, when he would challenge Karen Carson for the Fifth District seat.

Why would there be interest in School Board seats. Because the Knox Charter Petition / Accountability people left the school board out of the amendment. That is the likely reason that Jim McClain and his former School Board members endorsed the plan. In addition, Laurens Tullock of Cornerstone Foundation through the foundation funded several junkets for School Board back when Jim McClain was a School Board member, but I digress.

The School Board is exempt from Term Limits. The School Board is exempt from Nepotism. The School Board is exempt from the Conflicts of Interest.

So, the five seats that are open in 2010 and the likely candidates for those seats are as follows.

First District - Former Commissioner Diane Jordan who is a former Knoxville City School Board Member. Current Commissioner Thomas "Tank" Strickland.

Fourth District - Former Commission appointees Elaine Davis and William Daniels, Current Commissioner Ed Shouse, Former Commissioner Bee Deselm and John Schmid.

Sixth District - Current Commissioner Greg "Lumpy" Lambert, Former Commission appointee Sharon Cawood.

Seventh District - Current Commissioner Scott Moore.

Ninth District - Current Commissioner Paul Pinkston, Mike Hammond, Former Commissioner Larry Clark or Former Commission appointee Tim Greene.

In 2012 the four School Board seats open and likely candidates are.

Second District - Current Commissioners Amy Broyles and Mark Harmon whichever loses the Commission seat in 2010.

Third District - Current Commissioner Rex "Tony" Norman, Former Commissioner Wanda Moody.

Fifth District - Current Commissioner Craig Leuthold, former Commission appointee Frank Leuthold, former School Board member Thomas Deakins (due to residency being shifted into the fifth district)

Eighth District - Current School Board member Bill Phillips likely will NOT face opposition.

Thomas Deakins Should Resign Immediately

UPDATE: If the calendar is not a pressing educational issue. What about the schools operatiing budget? What about the schools Cafeteria budget? What about the Great Schools Partnership budget? Are those pressing educational budgets? We think so. But evidently Mr. Deakins does not. He missed the April 28, 2008 meeting where the board voted on those three budgets.

Original Post: 11/5/08 6:46 p.m. Thomas Deakins at tonight's school board meeting stated that we should just pass the calendar and move onto more pressing educational issues. Cindy Buttry reminded him that without a calendar there is no educational process.

Thomas Deakins obviously has his plate full with his job (having missed critical board workshops and meetings), his large family and he should resign immediately to allow someone in the Sixth district that believes that all board agenda items are important to the educational process.

On motion of Bill Phillips, the calendar was postponed until the next scheduled board meeting.

R. Larry Smith Scared Out Of The Seventh District

Last night as it became apparent that Knox County Charter Amendment #3 had passed. R. Larry Smith began talking about how only 1 Commissioner would represent the Seventh District. Successful Powell business woman Lillian Williams encountered R. Larry as they were attending the same gathering. Sources indicate that Mrs. Williams informed Smith face to face that she intends to run and it is impossible for him to out work her. He said we will see. She reassured him that he would not be able to outwork her.

Sources indicate that Smith began calling developers today in seeking early commitments for funds to run for one of the two at large County Commission seats.

The Democrats Left the White House in 2001 and Last Night From Outer Space they....

Moore Appeals

Sources close to County Commissioner Scott Moore indicate that he WILL appeal the ruling of the Special Judge.

WBIR Acknowledges Their Coverage Is Less Desireable Than Brian's Blog

We have been busy covering the National election here at the Brian's Blog offices. Two of our sources have called in to inform us that the white haired man on WBIR made reference to the coverage of Brian's Blog in the State Senate District 12 race. Susan Williams reportedly said clearly.

So to whomever the white haired man at WBIR is. We say thank you for acknowledging our work in covering the elections. Obviously something the crew at WBIR can't do, effectively.

BTW, White haired man at WBIR. Brian's Blog endorsed Chad Faulkner and he won. Thanks for your reference to our endorsement in that race.

The States That Didn't Matter in Electing President-Elect Obama

Florida
Puerto Rico
Alaska
North Carolina
Indiana
Missouri
Colorado
Nebraska
Arizona
Nevada
Montana

BHO Wins the Presidency

Vermont, Mass., Maryland, Illinois, District of Columbia, Conn, Maine, New Jersey, Delaware, New Hampshire, PA, New Mexico, Minnesota, New York, Rhode Island, Michigan, Ohio, Iowa, Virginia, CA and wins the Presidency.

Congrats to President-Elect Obama. Congrats to all of his followers and campaign volunteers.

Yager Beats Ruppe in TN Senate District 12

WECO of Wartburg has declared Yager the Winner of the State Senate District 12 contest. With WECO's announcement. Here at Brian's Blog we say Congratulations to Yager and Good Job to Morgan County Executive Becky Ruppe.

UPDATE 10:32 P.M.:
Yager 27.087
Ruppe 24,966

Update 10:00 P.M.:
Yager 25, 872
Ruppe 24,377

Original Post: 9:16 P.M.
Ruppe 10,655
Yager 9,817

Click here for live updates.

Faulkner Wins

One of our sources tell us that Chad Faulkner won the State Representative position representing Union and Campbell Counties. Word is the Brian's Blog endorsement put him over the top. Another one of Sheriff Tim's boys wins.

JSM, III Wins

KY, W. VA, SC, OK, TENNESSEE, Ark, Georgia, Wyoming, No. Dakota, Louisiana, Texas, Utah, MS,

Knox County Charter Amendments

#1 and #2 Pass

#3 We are calling this one PASSED. Commission will be reduced to 11 from 19.

#4 FAILED

#5 PASSED BIG. This one led by one man team of John Emison. Is it similar to one man one vote? No, John gained over 50,000 votes with him.

Cedar Bluff Precincts on Charter Amendments

Election Day Numbers

#3 - Failed in a close vote 846 for to 937 against
#4 - Failed BIG 464 for to 1331 against
#5 Liquor by the drink - WON BIG 1398 for to 462 against

Lamar! Wins. Saxby WINS in Georgia, Jeff Sessions Wins in Alabama

all three Republican retentions in Senate.

Bad News in NH

Jeanne Shaheen beats John Sununu. Third Democrat Senate Seat gain.

Sad News in North Carolina. Good News in KY

Elizabeth Dole is one and done. Kay Hagan is the second Democrat Senate seat gain.

Mitch McConnell of Kentucky goes back. That is good news.

Congratulations to Mark Warner of VA

A Democrat that we like. Unfortunately for the GOP a Senate seat loss.

Breaking News: JSM, III Wins UT Student Exit Poll

Check the exit poll results, here.

Vote

If you haven't already voted during the early vote period. Do so today. You must go to the voting precinct that is listed on your voting registration card.

Former Tennessee Governor Winfield Dunn in announcing his candidacy for Governor in the early 1970's said. "Support me if you can. Oppose me if you must. But above all participate." I have often times cited his quote because we all MUST participate.

McCain Wins

John McCain won the Kid Vote at Lotts Elementary School today by a nearly two (600 plus votes for McCain) to one (300 plus votes for BHO) margin. Since the Presidential election of 1996, Lotts has been accurate on their Presidential selections. In 1996, it was Bill Clinton over Bob Dole. In 2000 it was George W. Bush over Al Gore. In 2004 it was George W. Bush over John Kerrey. The school opened in 1993, missing the 1992 election.

BREAKING NEWS: Fulmer is Out

Thanks to one of our sources JW for pointing us toward this story on ESPN, link here. The announcement is at 5 p.m..

He will NOT be back next year. But, will he continue for the next three games? We will see. How appropriate. Majors lost his job after losing to South Carolina and now Fulmer.

As We Approach November 4, 2008 Let's Keep The Focus

Thanks to John Piper, Pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Mineapolis, Minnesota and Author of many resources including the book Don't Waste Your Life. He authored the following message about the election and how we Christians need to approach it. His ministry can be located, here.

Let Christians Vote As Though They Were Not Voting
By John Piper
October 22, 2008

Voting is like marrying and crying and laughing and buying. We should do it, but only as if we were not doing it. That’s because “the present form of this world is passing away” and, in God’s eyes, “the time has grown very short.” Here’s the way Paul puts it:

“The appointed time has grown very short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none, and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods, and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away” (1 Corinthians 7:29-31).

Let’s take these one at a time and compare them to voting.

1. “Let those who have wives live as though they had none.”

This doesn’t mean move out of the house, don’t enjoy married love, and don’t call her Honey. Earlier in this chapter Paul says, “The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights” (1 Corinthians 7:3). He also says to love her the way Christ loved the church, leading and providing and protecting (Ephesians 5:25-30).It means this: Marriage is momentary. It’s over at death, and there is no marriage in the resurrection. Wives and husbands are second priorities, not first. Christ is first. Marriage is for making much of him.

It means: If she is exquisitely desirable, beware of desiring her more than Christ. And if she is deeply disappointing, beware of being hurt too much. This is temporary—only a brief lifetime. Then comes the never-disappointing life which is life indeed.

So it is with voting. We should do it. But only as if we were not doing it. Its outcomes do not give us the greatest joy when they go our way, and they do not demoralize us when they don’t. Political life is for making much of Christ whether the world falls apart or holds together.

2. “Let those who mourn [do so] as though they were not mourning.”

Christians mourn with real, deep, painful mourning, especially over losses—loss of those we love, loss of health, loss of a dream. These losses hurt. We cry when we are hurt. But we cry as though not crying. We mourn knowing we have not lost something so valuable we cannot rejoice in our mourning. Our losses do not incapacitate us. They do not blind us to the possibility of a fruitful future serving Christ. The Lord gives and takes away. But he remains blessed. And we remain hopeful in our mourning.

So it is with voting. There are losses. We mourn. But not as those who have no hope. We vote and we lose, or we vote and we win. In either case, we win or lose as if we were not winning or losing. Our expectations and frustrations are modest. The best this world can offer is short and small. The worst it can offer has been predicted in the book of Revelation. And no vote will hold it back. In the short run, Christians lose (Revelation 13:7). In the long run, we win (Revelation 21:4).

3. “Let those who rejoice [do so] as though they were not rejoicing.”

Christians rejoice in health (James 5:13) and in sickness (James 1:2). There are a thousand good and perfect things that come down from God that call forth the feeling of happiness. Beautiful weather. Good friends who want to spend time with us. Delicious food and someone to share it with. A successful plan. A person helped by our efforts.

But none of these good and beautiful things can satisfy our soul. Even the best cannot replace what we were made for, namely, the full experience of the risen Christ (John 17:24). Even fellowship with him here is not the final and best gift. There is more of him to have after we die (Philippians 1:21-23)—and even more after the resurrection. The best experiences here are foretastes. The best sights of glory are through a mirror dimly. The joy that rises from these previews does not and should not rise to the level of the hope of glory. These pleasures will one day be as though they were not. So we rejoice remembering this joy is a foretaste, and will be replaced by a vastly better joy.

So it is with voting. There are joys. The very act of voting is a joyful statement that we are not under a tyrant. And there may be happy victories. But the best government we get is a foreshadowing. Peace and justice are approximated now. They will be perfect when Christ comes. So our joy is modest. Our triumphs are short-lived—and shot through with imperfection. So we vote as though not voting.

4. “Let those who buy [do so] as though they had no goods.”

Let Christians keep on buying while this age lasts. Christianity is not withdrawal from business. We are involved, but as though not involved. Business simply does not have the weight in our hearts that it has for many. All our getting and all our having in this world is getting and having things that are not ultimately important. Our car, our house, our books, our computers, our heirlooms—we possess them with a loose grip. If they are taken away, we say that in a sense we did not have them. We are not here to possess. We are here to lay up treasures in heaven.
This world matters. But it is not ultimate. It is the stage for living in such a way to show that this world is not our God, but that Christ is our God. It is the stage for using the world to show that Christ is more precious than the world.

So it is with voting. We do not withdraw. We are involved—but as if not involved. Politics does not have ultimate weight for us. It is one more stage for acting out the truth that Christ, and not politics, is supreme.

5. “Let those who deal with the world [do so] as though they had no dealings with it.”

Christians should deal with the world. This world is here to be used. Dealt with. There is no avoiding it. Not to deal with it is to deal with it that way. Not to weed your garden is to cultivate a weedy garden. Not to wear a coat in Minnesota is to freeze—to deal with the cold that way. Not to stop when the light is red is to spend your money on fines or hospital bills and deal with the world that way. We must deal with the world.

But as we deal with it, we don’t give it our fullest attention. We don’t ascribe to the world the greatest status. There are unseen things that are vastly more precious than the world. We use the world without offering it our whole soul. We may work with all our might when dealing with the world, but the full passions of our heart will be attached to something higher—Godward purposes. We use the world, but not as an end in itself. It is a means. We deal with the world in order to make much of Christ.

So it is with voting. We deal with the system. We deal with the news. We deal with the candidates. We deal with the issues. But we deal with it all as if not dealing with it. It does not have our fullest attention. It is not the great thing in our lives. Christ is. And Christ will be ruling over his people with perfect supremacy no matter who is elected and no matter what government stands or falls. So we vote as though not voting.

By all means vote. But remember: “The world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:17).

Voting with you, as though not voting,
Pastor John

Governor Ahh-nuld Sets The Record Straight, Yesterday

Obama Admits John McCain Has the Energy Solution

I am Brian the Blogger. But, I too am Joe the Plumber

Our "Consistent Conservative" Congressman Defends Us

Our "Consistent Conservative" Congressman defends us and the misuse of our tax dollars. Now we know why the TVA board had to raise our utility rates a month ago. We should all contact our "consistent Conservative" Congressman and thank him. We should contact Senator Alexander and Corker and ask for a Senate/Congressional investigation into the TVA's board.

October 31, 2008

Mr. William Sansom
Chairman of the Board
The Tennessee Valley Authority
400 W. Summit Hill Dr.
Knoxville, Tennessee 37902

Dear Chairman Sansom:

Each year an overwhelming majority of the people in this region become extremely upset about the millions of dollars in bonuses TVA gives to its top-level employees.

Now I am hearing an even stronger reaction to the salary and bonus package, totaling $3,270,000, given to Mr. Kilgore.

I have very great respect for you, Mr. Kilgore, and each member of the Board whom I know. However, this pay raise is excessive and very unnecessary.

Further, the timing could not be worse. Announcing this raise on the same day the Nation officially enters a recession, when many people are struggling to make ends meet, is just very unfortunate.

It becomes even worse when it follows a large rate increase that even Mr. Kilgore says may be able to be rescinded in a few months due to the decrease in fuel costs.

According to the Knoxville News-Sentinel, Mr. Kilgore says he did not request or seek a pay raise, but he was “overruled” by the Board.

As much as I admire and respect Mr. Kilgore, no one is indispensable or irreplaceable. I am convinced that many really outstanding people could be hired for half of this $3.27 million pay package.

I know the argument that other top executives in the utility industry are making more, and sometimes much more. However, just because someone else is making a ridiculous or unjustified salary does not mean that a public service agency like TVA should follow suit.

East Tennessee is one of the most popular places to live in this entire Country. TVA does not need to pay excessive salaries or bonuses to attract well-qualified people to fill its top-level positions.

I assume that the Board will not rescind this latest pay raise and will continue giving out huge bonuses, despite tremendous public opposition.

But I hope, at the very least, you will consider delaying this pay raise and any bonuses until this Nation comes out of recession or until TVA rescinds its recent rate increase.

With kindest regards, I am

Yours truly,

JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR.
Member of Congress

JJD:jg

Ken Yager Accepted What?

According to Lloyd Daugherty of the Tennessee Conservative Union. Guess who gave Ken Yager $1,000.00 out of his personal account? The same person gave Ken Yager $10,000.00 out of his PAC's account. Guess who? Former Tennessee Governor Don Sundquist. You remember the State Income Tax guy. Ken Yager. Clean it up!

Morgan County Executive Becky Ruppe has been endorsed by Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen. There is a contrast and compare for you.

He Never Complained

"The Wealth Spreader"

State Represntative District 36 - Faulkner is the Guy

In the State Representative District 36 race we are endorsing. This seat is the one that is open due to the retirement of Representative William Baird. Baird will be hard to replace but, we are endorsing Republican Chad Faulkner. Faulkner is running and running hard. The Democrats are spending all kinds of money in a smear campaign. But we believe the citizens of Campbell and Union Counties will see through the mud and the deceptions. Vote for and Elect Chad Faulkner.

Ben Atchley - He Just Makes You Laugh

Driving down the road the other day I hear a radio commercial with Benny Atchley and Democrat Tommy Schumpert telling us why we should vote YES for Charter Amendment 3 & 4. It made me laugh. Let's review. Benny Atchley served 28 long years in the State Senate. He promised Lt. Governor John Wilder that he would be the seventeenth vote for a State Income Tax in the 1990's.

If Benny had any influence within the elective process in Knox County it hasn't proven to be a majority voting block. In May of 2006, he flooded the radio airwaves with commercials endorsing Chad Tindell for Knox County General Sessions Judge. It resulted in Tindell receiving less than 25% of the Republican primary vote. In August of 2006 he appeared in direct mail pieces for Gary Drinnen in challenging State Representative Stacey Campfield. Drinnen too received less than 25% of the Republican primary votes in Campfield's legislative district.

So when I hear Benny Atchley endorsing something or someone. It just makes me laugh.