tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79007492012-01-27T15:48:58.613-05:00Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.comBlogger37931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-67074640007480698922012-01-25T19:23:00.002-05:002012-01-25T19:26:38.351-05:00

This was posted on Facebook, Shock And Awe decided to share

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-84719380101996030002012-01-25T18:57:00.000-05:002012-01-25T18:57:05.388-05:00

Mike Donila over at Screams From The Porch and the Knox County Investigative Reporter for the Big Metal Shed on the Hill details here about an exchange between Commissioner Robert Lawrence Smith and Register of Deeds Sherry Witt. Register Witt is a Fulton gal, Smith better reconsider directing his angst at her. She will not be one that he can bully.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-80041972512130395182012-01-25T18:34:00.000-05:002012-01-25T18:34:00.962-05:00

So last night Obamaman detailed how it was Bush's fault at least four times during the State of the Union. Newt Gingrich appeared in front of 4000 people in Sarasota County, Florida. He details what Obamaman has accomplished in his time and how quickly a Gingrich administration can dismantle what he was done to America.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-169215265934431932012-01-24T20:16:00.000-05:002012-01-24T20:16:20.595-05:00

Last week former Scripps writer Larry Van Guilder went to work as the Communications Guy for Trustee John Duncan. So, Mike Donila at the Big Metal Shed on the Hill and Screams From The Porch has asked for comment twice from Van Guilder. In this story, "Larry Van Guilder, a spokesman for the Trustee's Office, said Duncan would not comment Friday." In this second story posted at 5:44 pm today on

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-31183829507299368092012-01-23T23:07:00.001-05:002012-01-23T23:08:42.663-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-59238932259455156362012-01-22T22:24:00.001-05:002012-01-23T15:16:51.566-05:00

Property Assessor Candidate Phil Ballard's old signs that he is putting up say "Ballard on the Ballot" His new signs say "Promises Made, Promises Kept". What were his Promises? To whom did he make Promises? Is this an indication of a quid pro quo? If he promised to swap a lower salary of Jim Owings for a higher Trustee salary of his County Commission "Black Wednesday" buddy Craig

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-55458797568297210372012-01-21T20:16:00.003-05:002012-01-21T20:38:32.342-05:00

According to this Big Metal Shed on the Hill Trustee John Duncan has lawyered up. Duncan has engaged the services of Jeff Hagood. Today's news is on the heels of this news yesterday that Trustee employee Zach Brezina engaging the services of Attorney Greg Isaacs.  The two questions to date 1) When will the salary suit architect Chad Tindell lawyer up? This is now the second criminal

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-28757327366047767412012-01-21T20:00:00.000-05:002012-01-21T20:17:42.153-05:00

At Thursday night's State of the Schools address Current Eighth District School Board Member Mike McMillan and current candidate for re-election was a no show. When I asked Chairman Thomas Deakins why McMillan was not present. He said that McMillan had informed him that he was sorry that he would not be there, that he had a campaign event. Superintendent McIntyre scheduled and announced this

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-37787391560266944132012-01-21T10:46:00.003-05:002012-01-21T10:46:27.140-05:00

During the weekend, I will be posting several items about Thursday nights State of the Schools meeting. This is the meeting where Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jim McIntyre presented the state of the Knox County School district. I had previously posted that I would be unable to attend. Fortunately, I need not have to be at the Farragut High School Open House until 7:30 p.m. So I was able to make

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-75681312144603250042012-01-20T21:07:00.000-05:002012-01-20T21:07:28.598-05:00

Last night the South Knox Republican Club met and less than 12 people attended. Commissioner Mike Brown was present and made a statement to the group concerning the Hillside/Ridgetop Plan's "Briggs Amendment". A source at the meeting summarizes Commissioner Brown's statement as He (Brown) indicated that as we were supposed to be living in a kinder, gentler world the "Briggs Amendment" had been

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-43373020728729579262012-01-20T20:17:00.006-05:002012-01-20T20:17:52.529-05:00

This from Tom Mattingly's "The Vol Historian Blog" Gregg Harper was that friend that comes along rarely in ones life. 

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-22651492631599618392012-01-20T19:48:00.002-05:002012-01-20T19:48:20.267-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-23253050126510029502012-01-19T05:49:00.000-05:002012-01-19T05:49:49.770-05:00

Photo used from the online obituary.  Tuesday morning, my wife called to tell me that our friend Gregg Harper had died. He was born Gregg Malchom Harper on December 27, 1957. Gregg and Karen Harper have two children daughter and son in law, Dr. Lindsay Harper Pounds and Joey Pounds and son Derek Harper aka "DHarp". The family were active members of First Baptist Church Concord. The church

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-86212308555189215692012-01-18T21:40:00.001-05:002012-01-18T21:41:04.873-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-76012640456728381852012-01-18T21:07:00.002-05:002012-01-18T21:07:22.744-05:00

After this post this morning where I posted videos from yesterday's County Commission Work Session. I received a call from Lonnie Harris, local community and TEA party activist. He reminded me that Commissioner Norman should still be under an injunction issued by Knox County Chancellor Fansler.  If you will remember when the term limits case went to Chancery Court. Chancellor Fansler issued

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-82103877784411279382012-01-18T20:43:00.001-05:002012-01-18T20:53:25.657-05:00

Can we all agree the cruise ship Trustee Duncan has hit an iceberg? Can we all agree the boat has been taking on water? When can we agree that the life boats need to be launched and the women and children begin boarding the life boats? Will the Captain stay on till all others have disembarked? Check the latest story from WATE TV 6 for the gift that keeps on giving, here.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-49343336126727055402012-01-18T16:16:00.001-05:002012-01-18T20:52:35.832-05:00

Here Mike Donila over at Screams From The Porch explains the payback plan or not that Trustee Duncan has implemented for his unearned bonus recipients. Trustee Duncan (aka BabyDuncan) the gift that keeps giving.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-14986971115763335382012-01-18T07:27:00.002-05:002012-01-18T07:27:24.298-05:00

Yesterday at County Commission Work Session, Commissioner Tony Norman says that he has been meeting with Commissioners in "noticed meetings". He says that he is attempting to get "reconsideration" on the Briggs amendment. The Sunshine law which Norman did accurately notice, states that you "are not to deliberate" it is clear from Norman's admission that he is deliberating in these "noticed"

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-81426165303191342452012-01-18T06:43:00.000-05:002012-01-18T06:43:58.192-05:00

This morning at 10 a.m. the Watson family of Robinson Road will be back from Florida and they will experience the unveil of their new home. Thank you to the Extreme Makeover Home Edition, all the companies and volunteers that worked the past 7 - 8 days to tear down the Watson's old house and building the new one. From Shock And Awe, we say  "Welcome Home Watson Family, Welcome Home" 

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-69307412809520100972012-01-18T06:29:00.001-05:002012-01-18T06:36:17.054-05:00

In this weeks column by Sandra Clark in the Shopper News she reports about the goings on at the Knox County School Board. Here is what she reported. Knox County Schools will end the year with $10 million more than expected, said Superintendent Dr. Jim McIntyre. Revenue exceeded projections by $5 million, while another $5 million was squeezed out of expenses. That’s the good news.The bad news

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-63656352294195290032012-01-18T05:55:00.001-05:002012-01-18T06:36:31.194-05:00

Over in Shelby County it seems that two Commissioners were featured speakers at a Republican club meeting. One Commissioner got mad and verbally threatened another. The police were called. Read the story here in the Memphis Commercial Appeal. The story is similar to this story from a about 20 months ago where a former Black Wednesday Commissioner couldn't maintain civility. The difference is

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-30388544188630454882012-01-17T06:09:00.000-05:002012-01-17T07:03:41.204-05:00

County Commission Vice Chairman Brad Anders and I were talking several months ago. He referred to Mike Donila the originator of the term "Deathstar" and the local government watchdog reporter for the Big Metal Shed on the Hill in an unusual term. Now that Donila has been the investigative reporter on the Trustee Duncan unearned bonuses and now the Deathhstar literally shakes when Donila enters

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-71766135680042379162012-01-16T20:15:00.001-05:002012-01-17T06:59:16.239-05:00

At 7:24 pm tonight Knox County Third District School Board Candidate Doug Harris posted this on his Facebook.  "Get your Knox County School student grades on a new iPhone app! My 15 year son and programmer, Eli, just posted it on Apple iPhone apps store. Search SchoolGrades or knoxgrades. It only works with student username and password. Parents login is coming soon. The logo is a red apple.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-89508954860050495672012-01-16T07:47:00.001-05:002012-01-16T07:48:02.453-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-79460848584994948482012-01-15T21:00:00.000-05:002012-01-15T21:00:46.731-05:00

I am skeptical of this new tool that debuted today by the Big Metal Shed on the Hill and it's sister publication Commercial Appeal on the west end of Tennessee. If the truth were determined by an independent third party, I could feel at ease. However, the tool is utilizing Scripps employees to determine the truth.  For example the Haslam-O-Meter that will debut in the near future, are we

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-84443730035961925212012-01-15T12:06:00.003-05:002012-01-15T12:06:31.070-05:00

Sources in the Deathstar have reported to me that at a recent Ethics Committee meeting in the Small Assembly Room in the Deathstar. Commissioner Tony Norman engaged in a conversation with Commissioner Dr. Richard Briggs. At times, Norman was very belligerent in his discussion of the "Briggs Amendment" to the Hillside/Ridgetop Plan. Norman was reportedly "selling" Briggs on rescinding the

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-40619961264934473142012-01-15T10:02:00.001-05:002012-01-15T11:54:55.723-05:00

Monday night at the Red Lobster on Kingston Pike you may have heard some loud exchanges. It seems that the West Knox Republican Club officers were sworn in, then the candidates for Property Assessor and Law Director gave some remarks. Then Sally Absher gave a presentation on "Agenda 21" a rather capacious fairly well known man asked a question. After Absher answered the question. Another

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-13408728236616374662012-01-14T19:52:00.002-05:002012-01-14T19:52:19.142-05:00

On Thursday evening, the campaign of Gina Oster candidate for Third District Knox County School Board held a Meet & Greet at The Adams Law Firm in West Knoxville. A good crowd attended in support of Oster. Many made contributions, took yard signs and material to share with their neighbors. Here is Oster and Cindy Buttry the current Third District Knox County School Board Member. Buttry is not

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-49522327417415417402012-01-12T20:21:00.001-05:002012-01-12T20:21:50.606-05:00

Sources in the Deathstar say that Property Assessor Phil Ballard and Knox County Trustee John Duncan are playing musical job chair again. It seems that Former Mayor Mike Ragsdale Administrative Assistant Judy Parker who went to work with Phil Ballard a few years ago is now moving to Trustee Duncan's Cedar Bluff office. Calls to Craig Leuthold, Public Information Director for Property Assessor

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-51330646313401935412012-01-12T07:12:00.001-05:002012-01-12T07:12:05.441-05:00

Larry Van Guilder soon to be former Scripps "Slopper News" writer will become an accountant and public relations employee of Trustee John Duncan. But evidently, until LVG is on the delinquent attorney, (oh wait the delinquent tax attorney) is spinning for the office. This morning on the local liberal blog, he posted this. He must have gotten his headline writing skills out at the "Slopper News".

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-18973209157352808752012-01-11T21:57:00.000-05:002012-01-11T21:57:33.605-05:00

Last night at West High School the 5 women that on 11/29/2011 organized a couple of meetings to attempt to rally "public support" for the Knox County Schools. The women say that the "light" that ignited there interest was when the ladies heard a presentation by Buzz Thomas, Director of Great Schools Partnership. They say that Thomas reported "that every commissioner had told him that they had

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-62061878605398582312012-01-09T19:51:00.001-05:002012-01-11T19:39:25.933-05:00

This morning shortly after 8:00 am I received word that just after 4:00 am Lady Mull (Mrs. J. Bazzel "Elizabeth" Mull) had passed away. The first thing I envisioned was Preacher J. Bazzel Mull meeting her at the gates of heaven with his new eyes and hugging her and leading her to the presence of God. In much the same way, she guided and led Preacher all those years. I remember growing up, when

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-59994608305580380112012-01-09T16:01:00.002-05:002012-01-09T16:12:36.876-05:00

This story in today's Big Metal Shed on the Hill details a group of "local women" attempting to rally the community to support our local public schools. Several Shock And Awe readers have contacted me asking how this is a grassroots effort. They point out that Ginna Mashburn is a former Webb High School teacher, a private for profit school. Virginia Babb is the Membership Development employee

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-53799691303237106082012-01-08T22:16:00.001-05:002012-01-09T14:58:29.418-05:00

New Hampshire's Republican Primary is Tuesday. I suspect Mitt Romney who is polling at 39% of likely voters should get the nomination. John Huntsman who decided not to compete in Iowa, should pull votes from Romney in NH. I suspect that Ron Paul, Rick Santorum & Newt Gingrich will bunch up with the votes from the Conservative/Independent leaning New Hampshire citizens. Texas Governor Rick Perry

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-18656472832119414572012-01-07T08:44:00.003-05:002012-01-07T09:03:46.979-05:00

As we have blogged here, here, here, here, here, and here before the Trustee John Duncan taking and giving he and his cronies unearned bonuses issue is not going away. Today, Mike Donila over at the Big Metal Shed on the Hill has this story. It seems that Mr. Donila has been talking to everyone and Trustee Duncan's story keeps changing.  Now, the County Commissioners are going to get involved

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-40485336151815370802012-01-06T20:28:00.002-05:002012-01-06T20:30:33.442-05:00

Today the Chamber of Commerce's in Knox, Blount and Oak Ridge all urged the legislators to make the extension of the Pellissippi Parkway a 2012 legislative priority. Extending the parkway will bring much needed jobs to an already struggling economy and high unemployment and underemployment area. This is one priority that I join with the Chamber of Commerce's in encourage the legislature to

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-68793404159974017222012-01-05T13:46:00.001-05:002012-01-05T21:10:55.904-05:00

The Friends of the Knox County Public Library regularly conduct used book sales as a fundraiser. The big sales are once a year. The next one is March 10 - March 17, 2012 at the Knoxville Convention Center 701 Henley Street, Knoxville, TN. They have started a few mini  sales at branch libraries through out the year. I try to attend and have been really pleased with some real jewels that I have

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-72602699593041947142012-01-04T12:25:00.000-05:002012-01-04T12:25:53.142-05:00

TN State House redistricting plan that include Knox County was revealed today. A new district (#89) will be in Knox County. Primarily in the Hardin Valley/Karns area. There is no precinct/street detail yet. However, as previously reported on Shock And Awe this morning. Josh Carroll intends to be a candidate for the new position. Hat Tip to TNReport from twitter for the photograph! The

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-38175613584527455222012-01-04T11:55:00.002-05:002012-01-04T11:55:30.082-05:00

The next issue of National Review has a great story by Bob Costa about Rick Santorum following the Iowa Caucus. Read it at National Review Online here. 

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-22463361376025508262012-01-04T10:07:00.002-05:002012-01-04T10:07:14.195-05:00

Newt Gingrich is running the following full page ad in the New Hampshire Union Leader today. The newspaper that has already endorsed Gingrich. With Gingrich attacks on Mitt Romney, in part as reciprocity  for the Romney "superpac" attacks on Gingrich in Iowa. Will a Gingrich and Romney fight help Senator Rick Santorum? Also a fun fact is that the winner of the Iowa Republican Caucus rarely

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-17607913784213247052012-01-04T09:37:00.000-05:002012-01-04T09:38:52.037-05:00

Yesterday at the Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club Josh Carroll attended and informed the group that he will be a candidate for State Representative in the new district that will be created by redistricting. Carroll is married. He and his wife have two young children. He is a software designer.  The state legislature is expected to approve a redistricting plan shortly after they begin the

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-58341065120056787762012-01-03T19:47:00.000-05:002012-01-03T19:47:07.090-05:00

Earlier today, Cockrill Design and Planning the areas eleventh largest firm announced a joint merger with Community Tectonics the areas eighth largest firm. Thus creating Red Chair Architects. Check out their new website, here.David Cockrill is CEO; Don Shell, Chairman; Bill Vinson, President and Margaret Backhurst is the Director of Design of the new firm.Read the coverage from Josh Flory's

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-62586097341603040272012-01-03T18:39:00.001-05:002012-01-03T18:39:42.779-05:00

My buddy Byron Booker text messaged me last night informing me that my Hero and Former Third District U.S. Congressman Zach Wamp was at the UT Men's Basketball game. I was en route to Nashville at the time and was listening to the game on the Vol Network. Booker then sent me this cell phone pic of the Congressman. Wamp is the one in the blue sweater vest at court side. Congressman Wamp is the

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-4085691723916158582012-01-03T12:25:00.001-05:002012-01-03T12:30:17.031-05:00

I rarely read comments on knoxnews stories. However, for some reason I decided to look at the comments to this story. It seems that Commissioner Amy Broyles "sun-shined tea room meetings" with other Commissioners has been occurring at a local business that is allegedly behind on their city and county property taxes. According to knoxnews comment poster "JustAGuy" at 8:25 a.m. this morning, "So,

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-11415315542648180972012-01-02T13:28:00.001-05:002012-01-02T14:28:54.770-05:00

Today the Shopper News was delivered as usual. However, my sources that work where "The Focus" is printed called me this weekend and said there is no Focus being printed this weekend. In November Pilot/FlyingJ stores decided that it was time for the Focus not to be placed in their stores. This was a major setback as the Focus publisher has boasted how his paper is the only giveaway paper

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-83397295886550988332012-01-02T12:39:00.000-05:002012-01-02T14:31:42.494-05:00

On Thursday Knoxville City will meet and will review the applications of all the attorneys that have applied for the position of City Council Attorney. Charles Swanson who served as Council Attorney for more than 20 years has stepped down to accept the position of Knoxville Law Director with Madame Mayor Madeline administration.  Adrienne Anderson & Amanda Busby: Both of these ladies have

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-62608350966306289062012-01-02T09:31:00.001-05:002012-01-02T09:31:30.367-05:00

Last week, WBIR ran a story about how Trustee John Duncan was going to instruct his employees that received the unearned bonuses to complete the work or return the money by June 2012. Shock And Awe reported that story here. I received criticism on a certain "weekly print media photojournalist" facebook page for being too critical of Trustee Duncan. That is ok, I can handle people with jealousy/

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-4522418773454213222012-01-01T15:56:00.000-05:002012-01-01T15:56:51.048-05:00

This is a Great Idea! The only problem is they give themselves two years of unearned bonuses before the media and public discover it. So, first we need to quit allowing the politicians control the money.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-83885664402675709882012-01-01T15:23:00.002-05:002012-01-01T15:23:49.415-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-13158445832617269222012-01-01T13:35:00.001-05:002012-01-01T15:06:52.192-05:00

Eleven months ago, current Knox County Property Assessor Phil Ballard was a subject of this story in the Tennessee Journalist. In the interview he responded to a sexual harassment investigation brought by one of his employees. There was a video posted in the report. In watching the video. Ballard's body language does not match his words. Could a body language expert confirm his innocence? 

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-22329354408740581262012-01-01T00:00:00.000-05:002012-01-01T05:21:20.617-05:00

My wish for each and everyone of you is that you have a fantastic 2012. 2011, wasn't so kind, I know Obamaman and his and crazy Uncle Joe's economy had a lot to do with. I hoped that the door didn't hit 2011 where the good Lord split it (rear end) but 2012 is going to be fantabulous for me in spiritual, family, business and political too. 2012 and I have a date with destiny.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-13016103331368656442011-12-31T09:40:00.000-05:002011-12-31T09:40:04.900-05:00

On Wednesday the second Director of Knox County's Emergency Communication District (E911) passed away. Tom Key, a military veteran (Cpt. in the Army). Key was Knoxville's first undercover narcotics police officer, the first OSHA Director for the City of Knoxville. Key also served as CTO/CIO for U.S. Senator Albert Gore, Jr. He designed and implemented international telemdicine for St. Jude

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-25274181029931623922011-12-30T16:34:00.000-05:002011-12-30T16:34:39.176-05:00

Yesterday at 11:04 a.m. the Big Metal Shed on the Hill published this story online about the hiring of Patricia Robledo by Madame Mayor Madeline. By Bill Lyons own admission on the local liberal blog, Lyons the #3 guy in the Madame Mayor Madeline administration posted "I monitored the comments from the time the article appeared. Literally within a minute or two a comment appeared that was just

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-15637017109196949102011-12-30T00:00:00.000-05:002011-12-30T16:35:29.275-05:00

WBIR reports tonight (here) that Trustee John Duncan is requiring the employees that received a bonus this year that had not earned it a six month grace period ( by June 30, 2012) to complete the requirements or return the money. Duncan states that in 2010CTAS had a computer error and that is why the unearned bonuses were paid. WBIR apparently has not confirmed that with CTAS. Let's just

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-70322370662353983312011-12-29T16:33:00.001-05:002011-12-29T16:33:48.721-05:00

We were the first to report the business liaison appointment by Madame Mayor Madeline at 10:51 am. Knoxnews was next at 11:04 am and then the local liberal blog was behind us both at 1:06 pm.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-90276194170039362632011-12-29T10:51:00.004-05:002011-12-29T11:55:59.352-05:00

This morning Madam Mayor Madeline named Patricia Robledo as the City of Knoxville's Business Liaison. Robledo is a small business owner and executive director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of East Tennessee according to the press release. Robledo will head the Office of Business Support that Rogero promised during the campaign to create if elected.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-72490607413279787372011-12-29T09:34:00.000-05:002011-12-29T09:35:05.942-05:00

Bob Dylan penned the chorus and Old Crow Medicine Show completed the classic song "Wagon Wheel". Below is Jake at the World Famous Tootsies in Nashville singing "Wagon Wheel" as a cover song. Below is the "official music video" of the Old Crow Medicine Show. You can interrupt any thing you want to from the words and the video of the song. I see that the band had no crowd until the ladies

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-46241678382218698392011-12-28T14:30:00.004-05:002011-12-28T14:30:43.574-05:00

He tells you right here.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-44884141187796526862011-12-28T13:58:00.002-05:002011-12-28T13:58:41.912-05:00

Some people say that Dr. Jim McIntyre, Superintendent of Knox County Schools is the highest paid. Some people say that Dale Smith, the head of the Knoxville/Knox County Public Building Authority is the highest paid. Well, my sources in the Deathstar (aka City County Building) have informed me (and I am attempting to get all the material) that the head of the Knoxville/Knox County Tourism and

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-28869456573645615872011-12-27T16:46:00.001-05:002011-12-27T16:46:18.549-05:00

A friend of mine was out visiting his in laws in Cedar Rapids, IA for CHRISTmas and sent this cell phone pic of the Cedar Rapids Gazette.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-5295371214687696362011-12-26T10:48:00.003-05:002011-12-26T10:48:43.907-05:00

Today's Big Metal Shed on the Hill has a a story about Knox County Schools proceeding with a volunteer data base where community members can search by grade or needs for volunteer opportunities at all the Knox County schools. I am concerned about perverts seeing this as their way into the school with the kids. Read the story here. My advice to  Knox County Schools, proceed with caution.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-17087168815308634762011-12-26T06:25:00.001-05:002011-12-26T10:49:52.924-05:00

Mike Donila over at Screams From The Porch posted what the new meeting notices look like. He posted Robert Lawrence Smith's. On Smith's meeting notice it states he will be attending the "Big Orange Zip Off Club" Do What? It is every Monday & Wednesday at Noon in January & February at Calhouns on the River. You can just go ahead and fill in the blank _____________. Here is the notice

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-80615195111887891342011-12-25T00:00:00.000-05:002011-12-26T10:50:33.334-05:00

Merry CHRISTmas!

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-27709735991533743242011-12-24T20:24:00.001-05:002011-12-26T10:51:57.104-05:00

According to Trustee John Duncan III it was Attorney Chadwick B. Tindell that authored the salary suit that disguised the "bonuses". It slipped by Mayor Burchett the first year. But not this year, so now the Trustee finds himself at odds with the popularly elected and "the taxpayer's watchdog" County Mayor Tim Burchett. The public opinion is clearly against the Trustee based on the comments of

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-69000616091710801642011-12-24T04:53:00.001-05:002011-12-24T05:13:40.180-05:00

I have been active in local politics since 1982. I always supported the late Congressman Duncan and now his son U.S. Representative John J. (Jimmy) Duncan, Jr. One thing I have always liked about Congressman Jimmy Duncan has been his staunch Conservative principles. One thing that he does personally is that he carries a notebook in his pocket and writes down every cent he spends. If he buys a

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-39752055244056308112011-12-23T15:19:00.000-05:002011-12-23T15:19:41.258-05:00

Just a couple of days ago, it was announced that E.W. Scripps writer/reporter Larry Van Guilder had accepted a Senior Accounting and Public Relations job with Trustee John Duncan III. So, needless to say. When today's story by Mike Donila of the Big Metal Shed on the Hill detailing the unearned bonuses going to Duncan and Duncan's top "employees" you just have to figure that like the "calgon,

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-34393879331097066492011-12-23T12:19:00.001-05:002011-12-23T12:19:18.346-05:00

After this here Mike Donila story from the Big Metal Shed on the Hill on Trustee Duncan there will be no Christmas break for Cynthia Moxley. She will be "occupying in" over at the Big Metal Shed to get this squashed quickly.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-61044098572289963542011-12-23T11:11:00.001-05:002011-12-23T11:11:42.243-05:00

I have blogged about the proposal by the Haslam administratio to close Lakeshore here in Knoxville. It appears by some to be an attack on the mentally ill. Now here in today's Chattanooga Times Free Press the Haslam administration are looking at closing the Taft Youth Development Center. Come on Governor Haslam! Targeting the mentally ill and youth just ain't like you.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-65813484710234499502011-12-22T16:51:00.000-05:002011-12-23T10:32:51.372-05:00

This afternoon, TN Coordinator of Elections Mark Goins issued his opinion and Gina Oster may be a candidate for the Third District School Board seat. So, the Knox County Law Director who previously opined that Mrs. Oster can run and now the TN Coordinator of Elections has opined that Mrs. Oster can run. Now let the race begin. There are two other candidates in addition to Mrs. Oster. Bobby

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-12295624805590156002011-12-22T11:52:00.000-05:002011-12-22T11:52:04.559-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-27385429612679501762011-12-21T19:17:00.001-05:002011-12-21T19:17:40.301-05:00

One of my favorite Nashville entertainers has a video of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" Taria and her drummer, background vocals husband Marty will be releasing Taria's first project shortly after the first of the year. Enjoy this for the holidays and I will be introducing you to a preview in a few days of one of her upcoming tunes.  

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-665855340562087352011-12-21T18:24:00.002-05:002011-12-21T18:26:09.520-05:00

So, the Big Metal Shed on the Hill had a front page headline story about former City School Board Member, City Councilman, Republican State Executive Committeeman, County Commissioner and two time Knoxville Mayoral Candidate Ivan Harmon getting a $37,000 a year job with the Knox County Sheriffs Office supervising work release inmates performing community service. There is multiple intentional

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-86084328647006271092011-12-20T21:04:00.001-05:002011-12-21T18:05:15.795-05:00

UPDATE: December 21, 2011 Trustee Duncan when asked said that Larry Van Guilder's salary will be $58,000 a year. I bet thats an increase from a Scripps salary. So, the reporting style of Larry Van Guilder has now been revealed. While Van Guilder was always critical of Mayor Burchett and his predecessor. While he was critical of School Board Members, County Commissioners and others. He was

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-79705809329684676532011-12-19T17:59:00.001-05:002011-12-19T17:59:47.932-05:00

So, the folks at the Deathstar are saying that Seventh District Commissioner Robert Lawrence Smith has his sights on a County Commission at Large seat in 2014. But, you ask how can he? He has served two terms on County Commission already. Well, it seems that Robert Lawrence is saying that the at large is a NEW seat. Wait a minute! During the election of 2010, Robert Lawrence in his typical he

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-18116329204853220072011-12-18T19:54:00.005-05:002011-12-18T19:54:45.986-05:00

Do you need to purchase Christmas gifts for your dog or dogs. I would suggest going to River Dog Bakery. River Dog Bakery is located at 5201 Kingston Pike in Suite #8. It is near Homberg Place. River Dog Bakery makes dog treats in house at their location. They have all the essential dog accessories. They even have a spa room for your dog to visit for that special bath and primp session. River

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-12488590567969590582011-12-18T18:07:00.001-05:002011-12-18T19:35:26.335-05:00

Cliff Rodgers of the Knox County Election Commission is asking questions of Gina Oster's eligibility to be on the ballot for School Board. His Assistant Scott Frith worked as the Assistant to previous Administrator Greg Mackay when in 2010. School Board candidates Mike McMillan and Contract employee of the School District Roy Mullins were on the primary and general election ballots. So, why is

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-9836649748559509422011-12-16T07:14:00.002-05:002011-12-16T07:14:12.715-05:00

In today's "Big Metal Shed on the Hill" publication are reporting that the Knox County Election Commission Administrator Cliff Rodgers is looking into the eligibility of Gina Oster to be a candidate for Knox County School Board in the Third District. Read the story here. Rodgers is questioning her eligibility because she is a current schools employee. Yes, there is a restriction that you can NOT

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-89170976938445803122011-12-16T00:00:00.000-05:002011-12-16T07:06:09.908-05:00

With all the foreclosures, why the "Big Metal Shed on the Hill" reported this on Wednesday about Harry Sherrod's home foreclosure just didn't seem newsworthy. Mr. Sherrod was up front and honest about his situation. He owns Atlas Electric. Atlas suffered some slow times due to the economy and he has moved the operation to Kosovo. The news paper has detailed Atlas and Mr. Sherrod many times in

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-29306172306414300522011-12-14T20:14:00.000-05:002011-12-14T20:55:59.554-05:00

After Monday's Knox County Commission Work Session and the vocal support for a resolution asking Governor Haslam to delay the closing of Lakeshore for two additional years. TN Commissioner of Mental Health Doug Varney came to Knox County today to meet with Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett and members of the Knox County Commission. The Commissioners present were Jeff Ownby of the fourth

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-7269139185072307202011-12-12T17:06:00.001-05:002011-12-12T19:07:02.747-05:00

Former Knox County Republican Party Chairman and Former Prisoner of War Bill Tallent has died. When I was Knox County GOP Chairman, Mr. Tallent gave me a POW/MIA lapel pin that I still wear from time to time. Mr. Tallent was an exceptional person, a man to be respected and revered. God Bless you, Mr. Tallent and Rest In Peace, Kind Sir!

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-17735187246488030642011-12-12T16:17:00.004-05:002011-12-12T19:06:43.177-05:00

Dan Andrews local print news photographer has consistently worn a "press" fedora for the past 1.5 - 2 years. So, today local news print reporter Betty Bean appeared at County Commission Workshop wearing a fedora as well. I sent Mike Donila of the "Big Metal Shed on the Hill" a tweet during the meeting asking if he would be getting a fedora. He replied back that he might have to get one. Dan

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-17673767470655271202011-12-10T12:23:00.001-05:002011-12-10T12:35:11.255-05:00

Today is the annual classic Army / Navy football game. It will be televised beginning at 2:30 p.m. on CBS. Locally on WVLT VolunteerTV. Anyway, it is Go Navy for me. You see my "Mammaw Blake's" brother lived in Crownsville, MD and was a farmer. In 1991, Navy borrowed the Army mule and they used my Uncle Weir's expertise, horse trailer and his farm to house the Army mule. The Navy football

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-62969434721558087872011-12-07T20:29:00.001-05:002011-12-07T20:29:38.850-05:00

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-16156069683749314902011-12-07T20:17:00.001-05:002011-12-07T20:17:26.525-05:00

The Tennessee College Republicans created a youtube video that has already has over 40,000 views. It sums up the reality for the "debt generation".

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-87879282259647554712011-12-06T14:55:00.001-05:002011-12-06T15:07:32.804-05:00

Weston Wamp, Republican candidate for Third District United States Congressman broke a Third District fundraising record. Wamp raised $250,000 in a one night fundraiser. Read the report from Nooga.com here. Weston Wamp, Republican Third District United States Congressional Candidate and myself at a recent event in Roane County. 

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-34054349137608154442011-12-06T03:09:00.001-05:002011-12-06T15:26:29.476-05:00

At noon this Thursday is the qualifying deadline for several elected positions in Knox County. The position held by Criminal Court Judge Steve Sword, the Knox County Law Director, Knox County Property Assessor and four seats on the Knox County School Board are up for grabs. Steve Sword was appointed by Governor Bill Haslam to fill the the Criminal Court Judge position previously held by Richard

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-43203703158319843822011-12-03T14:20:00.001-05:002011-12-03T14:21:23.760-05:00

I loved when Herman Cain in his speech today announcing the next step in his involvement in leading the people back to taking back their government. He referred to his grandmother and when people were dead wrong she would say "bless their heart". So, now all those whackos on the "blab" along with Sandra Clark and Betty Bean know why I consistently say "bless your heart"

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-83709535549570855332011-12-03T14:02:00.001-05:002011-12-03T14:09:14.259-05:00

The politicians and the media won the battle in causing Herman Cain to suspend his campaign for President. What they meant to do force him back to the plantation. While back on the plantation they intended for him to stay out of sight and keeping his mouth shut. Well, that didn't and that ain't going to happen. Visit the website here for "We The People" to take our country back.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-74393264098729993782011-12-03T07:21:00.001-05:002011-12-03T07:23:34.493-05:00

The CAK Warriors rolled to a 49-14 win over the Milan Bulldogs for a State Championship in high school football yesterday. Honorable mention to the Powell Panthers in their 17-14 loss to Henry County for a State Championship last night. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make it to a playoff game. Good work Powell!

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-2084542037427102982011-11-30T20:32:00.001-05:002011-11-30T20:54:43.990-05:00

Tonight County Commissioner Jeff Ownby hosted a forum for community members and employees regarding the closure of Lakeshore. The attendees are concerned with the decision of TN Commissioner of Mental Health Director Doug Varney in recommending to Governor Bill Haslam to stop admissions at Lakeshore in Knoxville on January 1, 2012. In addition Commissioner Varney has recommended ultimate closure

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-2376777791894916682011-11-29T14:05:00.001-05:002011-11-29T14:16:43.237-05:00

In her weekly column (here) Sandra Clark a Scripps employee missed the little detail known as facts. You see, Sandra was "quote" making the case for re-electing Indya Kincannon to the Second District School Board position and Karen Carson to the Fifth District School Board position. In making the case for Kincannon, she accurately described the new school board district that includes Fountain

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-92121173485209323782011-11-29T02:04:00.001-05:002011-11-29T02:36:02.293-05:00

Currently there are two candidates that are actively pursuing the job of Knox County Law Director. The "incumbent" Joseph "Joe" Gregory Jarret and Richard Bernard "Bud" Armstrong, Jr.. Jarret was appointed to the job by the Knox County Commission when the elected law director stepped down from office. Interestingly enough, Bud Armstrong was a Knox County Commissioner at the time of Jarret's

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-46572720085135079532011-11-26T07:10:00.001-05:002011-11-26T07:14:52.995-05:00

Someone needs to tell the Shopper News that that the Mayor's race was three weeks ago. For two weeks after the Mayor's election they are still publishing stories slamming Mark Padgett or Padgett supporters. This past week, it was Betty Bean with a story pitting Julia Tucker against Mose Lobetti. Two individuals that go back decades ago. It is totally distasteful winner. Of course, Bean probably

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-3361785235482657462011-11-23T20:12:00.001-05:002011-11-23T20:12:36.356-05:00

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday November 28 at 7 pm in the sanctuary of Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church. The church is located at 9132 Kingston Pike. Mrs. Burchett asked that no flowers be sent. However, Memorials can be sent to. Christian Academy of Knoxville to the "Charlie & Joyce Burchett Tution Assstance Fund" 529 Academy Way Knoxville, TN 37923 Knox Area Rescue Mnistries "In

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-73704211807197116162011-11-23T17:18:00.001-05:002011-11-23T19:16:39.736-05:00

Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett's mom has passed away this afternoon. Please pray for Tim, Allison and the rest of the Burchett family. Mrs. Burchett and Dean Burchett were absolutely the most wonderful people. Of course Dean Burchett passed away a few years ago. Of course, Tim's dad was named Charlie Burchett, but his role over at the University cause many of us to simply call him Dean Burchett

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-82142328380577382842011-11-23T15:43:00.001-05:002011-11-23T15:54:57.697-05:00

Commissioner Amy Broyles twice this month has either had a side bar conversation during the meeting or gave an approving slap to another Commissioner indicating "good boy" At a special called meeting earlier this month. School Board Member Cindy Buttry appeared before the Commission voted on their second and final reading of the redistricting plan. I captured Commissioner Broyles in an in

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-38814441573538724042011-11-23T12:27:00.001-05:002011-11-23T12:42:27.095-05:00

In yesterday's Big Metal Shed on the Hill was this story about Governor Haslam taking the budget on the road. This past June Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett took the budget to the citizens of Knox County. Burchett held 6 or 7 of them. Shock And Awe covered two of them. Here was our report on Mayor Burchett's Budget Hearings. It seems that Governor Haslam is mimicking our Knox County Mayor.

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-21134967699948811842011-11-23T04:00:00.001-05:002011-11-23T04:08:15.570-05:00

In Monday's Commission meeting as the Commissioners were talking and listening to the public on the controversial Hillside/Ridgetop Plan. Commissioner Rex "Tony" Norman a proponent for the government interference into private property owner rights got rather agitated. He launched into a little temper tantrum about a comment that this was over regulation. As his blood pressure was rising, he said

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-34659816198043828052011-11-23T03:30:00.001-05:002011-11-23T03:47:17.027-05:00

The liberals like to say that Shock And Awe doesn't make a difference. That no one reads my blog. That no one really cares. On Monday, as Commissioners were debating a rules committee change that would require a 48 hour notice for a meeting. Amy Broyles credit's this blog with the change. I appreciate the credit and recognition. Here is the original post of September 24, exposing Broyles

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900749.post-48766293620462587192011-11-21T21:46:00.001-05:002011-11-21T21:49:28.821-05:00

Tonight, the Halls Republican Club met and heard from Knox County Property Assessor Phil Ballard and former Knox County Property Assessor John Whitehead. Ballard had several employees attend tonight's meeting. He appeared nervous. As he introduced himself, he said I am Phil Ballard, your County Commissioner. His staff quickly corrected him, saying No, you are the Property Assessor. While it was

Brian Hornbacknoreply@blogger.com0