Good Morning MJ:
Here's a few items of interest and FYI's:
1. Parents: if you haven't checked out the new Tot Park inside Charlie Daniels Park then take the kids out this weekend for a real treat. Thanks to the work of many and the kind donation by the Clark Family in honor of their son better known as "Squirrel", MJ's Charlie Daniels Park has added a whole new state-of-the-art play area for our youngest citizens. We hope to dedicate the play area to "Squirrel" next week, but from all indications the concrete will be dry on the area walkway this weekend, so check it out.
2. Movie in the Park, next Friday, starting at dusk. We're between 150 to 200 film buffs each month at our family oriented films. This one should be particularly fun to the young and young at heart . . . so says Yogi and Boo Boo! It all takes place at the amphitheater in Charlie Daniels Park, Friday, 5 August.
3. Calling all Volunteers: Your Animal Shelter needs you. It's summer and the numbers are up; adoptions are down. Right now there's a wide variety of dogs, and even more cats to choose from. Want to do more; consider being a Shelter volunteer or give to the Shelter's non-profit. It's tax deductible! For more info just call or stop by the MJ Animal Shelter on Industrial Drive. Speaking of Animals, between 12:00 and 3:00 pay a visit to the MJ Dairy Queen on Lebanon Road today. $1 of every "Blizzard" sold goes to the Shelter's non-profit, and there'll be dogs ready for adoption. It promises to be a great day for a cool treat.
4. School is back in session this Monday so commuters should plan accordingly. Remember to give yourself a little extra time, particularly if your trip involves travel on North Mt. Juliet Road (NMJR). Speaking of NMJR, things are really starting to take shape there; curbing, sidewalks, sod, and even asphalt is starting to go down. The end is in sight.
5. With the help of the MJPD, MJ will celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, 2 August. National Night Out is a family oriented event that couples various businesses around the city, the MJ community and the MJPD together for an evening of fun. Be at Providence Market Place this coming Tuesday, starting at 5:00 p.m. There'll be tons of freebies.
6. Lookin' for something different to do? Bring your four legged best friend to MJ South Park (off Belinda Parkway) and check out the MJ Bark Park. Usually Fido will see lots of others friends playing at this hidden city jewel. Not into dogs? Try a round of Frisbee Golf at Mundy Park. It's free! Don't have just the right disc? You can even rent them at Charlie Daniels Park and drop em' right there at Mundy.
7. Wondering what's all the construction on Lebanon Road? TDOT is repaving Lebanon Road from the Davidson County line to Park Glen Road. This $1.2m project is expected to take 45 to 60 days, but all work is scheduled to be done between 8:00 p.m. at night and 5:00 a.m. in the morning. As an added benefit look for new bike lanes and associated signage when the project is done. Thanks TDOT!
8. Can you say "Community Resilience?" There'll be much more on this over the next few months, but MJ has the unique opportunity to be one of 10 cities in the United States selected to participate in a federal pilot program examining how a community prepares and recovers from a terrorist attack, man-made or natural disaster, and even an economic catastrophe. Pretty timely stuff considering what recently happened in Joplin, Missouri; Tuscaloosa, Alabama; and last week, Oslo, Norway. Keep tuned.
8. On a final note, a personal thanks to the men who make up the MJ contingent of volunteer firefighters at Station 3 of WEMA. These trained and ready professionals have done an exceptional job supplementing the full timers at Station 3 for now going on 2 years. With all the recent media and talk about fire and emergency services the last few months, we don't hear much about these outstanding fellows who volunteer on their own time. Thanks for all you do Gentlemen.
Take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
Showing posts with label Animal Shelter Volunteers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Animal Shelter Volunteers. Show all posts
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Friday, June 17, 2011
Update: June 17, 2011
Good afternoon MJ:
Here's some items of interest and FYI:
1. Community Conversation: This Thursday (23 June), at 5:30, at the MJ High School, MJ will make history; come be a part of it. Through interactive technology, participants will answer questions about their vision of the city, what they think it should be, and the best way to proceed. The auditorium holds nearly 1100, but the first 600 will be issued devices allowing them to anonymously record their responses. They'll be some great prizes too including a $400 electronic starting mower from D.T. McCall's, a 32" color television, a handmade quilt from the Quilters Path, power tools and ceiling fans from H&H Suppy and Mayer's Electric, Corner Pub gift certificates and much more. Come talk with the MJ Board of Commissioners and County Mayor Hutto. We need every person coming to bring others. We want to especially invite our business owners and leaders and those who do most of their shopping in Mt. Juliet. See you there.
2. An MJ institution is leaving our city. Come wish Mrs. Mary Bacon, the long-time Chairman of the Board and President of the MJ Help Center, and her husband a fond bon-voyage as they leave for their new home in Arizona. Through Mary's diligence and persistence the Help Center grew to one of the most resourceful in Middle Tennessee. We want to wish Mary goodbye at a ceremony on Sunday, 26 June, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Celebration Lutheran Church (at the corner of Woodridge Place and North Mt. Juliet Road).
3. Sales tax receipts for May came in this week, and we are about $20k higher than May of 2010. Even though this is great, we're starting to see a discernable slow down in the percentage of year-over-year growth in sales tax revenue. All the more reason to join us at the Community Conversation and to "Shop MJ First."
4. Looking for some great summer fun right here at home? Check out the Frisbee Golf Course at Mundy Park. It's open from dawn to dusk. If you don't have the disc you can rent them at the CD Rec Center. It's fun and cheap! Other upcoming Parks and Rec events include our 1 July Movie in the Park, The Goonies, the 4 July Firework Fest at Providence, starting at dusk, and the 23 July "Splash Day" with several water inflatable's, food and fun. As a reminder, the Charlie Daniels Gym will be close until 24 June due to resurfacing . . . it will be even better then.
5. Attention all cat lovers (and those who think they might want a feline friend). The MJ Animal Shelter has a deal for you - June is cat/ kitten month. The adoption fee is being picked up by the Volunteer Benefit Fund. Right now the Shelter has nearly 50 cats and kittens, so you'll get literally the "pick of the litter." Remember, the Shelter is always in need of volunteers. Whether you have a few hours each week or month. Even those who don't have a lot of time but can help in other ways. We need you! Call the MJ Animal Shelter at 773-5533 for more information.
6. Tired of fighting the traffic to get to work in Nashville? Financially pinched with the price of gas? Take the train. Last Friday (10 June), the Music City Star held 1455 riders . . . a record day. It's fast, easy and affordable. Tickets can be purchased at City Hall.
7. Got a gripe or concern about County services and want to be heard. The last Wednesday of every month, County Mayor Randall Hutto has office hours between 8:30 and 10:00 here in MJ City Hall. Accompanying him is the Wilson County Veterans Affairs Officer, J.C. Satterfield. If you’re a veteran or the family member of a vet, here's a chance to talk about benefits, educational issues, medical care, or any other veteran related matter. It's on a first come first serve basis, or call Rachael at 444-1383 for an appointment. The next MJ Office date will be Wednesday, 29 June.
Finally, congratulations goes out to Colonel Robert (Bobby) Hibbett of Mt. Juliet, on his pending retirement from the Tennessee Army National Guard. Not only has Bobby served our state and nation through the Guard, but he protects and serves daily as a Deputy District Attorney General for the 15th District. Well Done and thank you Sir. Hooah!
That's all for this week. See you at MJHS on Thursday, at 5:30. Take care and be safe.
R. Robertson
Here's some items of interest and FYI:
1. Community Conversation: This Thursday (23 June), at 5:30, at the MJ High School, MJ will make history; come be a part of it. Through interactive technology, participants will answer questions about their vision of the city, what they think it should be, and the best way to proceed. The auditorium holds nearly 1100, but the first 600 will be issued devices allowing them to anonymously record their responses. They'll be some great prizes too including a $400 electronic starting mower from D.T. McCall's, a 32" color television, a handmade quilt from the Quilters Path, power tools and ceiling fans from H&H Suppy and Mayer's Electric, Corner Pub gift certificates and much more. Come talk with the MJ Board of Commissioners and County Mayor Hutto. We need every person coming to bring others. We want to especially invite our business owners and leaders and those who do most of their shopping in Mt. Juliet. See you there.
2. An MJ institution is leaving our city. Come wish Mrs. Mary Bacon, the long-time Chairman of the Board and President of the MJ Help Center, and her husband a fond bon-voyage as they leave for their new home in Arizona. Through Mary's diligence and persistence the Help Center grew to one of the most resourceful in Middle Tennessee. We want to wish Mary goodbye at a ceremony on Sunday, 26 June, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Celebration Lutheran Church (at the corner of Woodridge Place and North Mt. Juliet Road).
3. Sales tax receipts for May came in this week, and we are about $20k higher than May of 2010. Even though this is great, we're starting to see a discernable slow down in the percentage of year-over-year growth in sales tax revenue. All the more reason to join us at the Community Conversation and to "Shop MJ First."
4. Looking for some great summer fun right here at home? Check out the Frisbee Golf Course at Mundy Park. It's open from dawn to dusk. If you don't have the disc you can rent them at the CD Rec Center. It's fun and cheap! Other upcoming Parks and Rec events include our 1 July Movie in the Park, The Goonies, the 4 July Firework Fest at Providence, starting at dusk, and the 23 July "Splash Day" with several water inflatable's, food and fun. As a reminder, the Charlie Daniels Gym will be close until 24 June due to resurfacing . . . it will be even better then.
5. Attention all cat lovers (and those who think they might want a feline friend). The MJ Animal Shelter has a deal for you - June is cat/ kitten month. The adoption fee is being picked up by the Volunteer Benefit Fund. Right now the Shelter has nearly 50 cats and kittens, so you'll get literally the "pick of the litter." Remember, the Shelter is always in need of volunteers. Whether you have a few hours each week or month. Even those who don't have a lot of time but can help in other ways. We need you! Call the MJ Animal Shelter at 773-5533 for more information.
6. Tired of fighting the traffic to get to work in Nashville? Financially pinched with the price of gas? Take the train. Last Friday (10 June), the Music City Star held 1455 riders . . . a record day. It's fast, easy and affordable. Tickets can be purchased at City Hall.
7. Got a gripe or concern about County services and want to be heard. The last Wednesday of every month, County Mayor Randall Hutto has office hours between 8:30 and 10:00 here in MJ City Hall. Accompanying him is the Wilson County Veterans Affairs Officer, J.C. Satterfield. If you’re a veteran or the family member of a vet, here's a chance to talk about benefits, educational issues, medical care, or any other veteran related matter. It's on a first come first serve basis, or call Rachael at 444-1383 for an appointment. The next MJ Office date will be Wednesday, 29 June.
Finally, congratulations goes out to Colonel Robert (Bobby) Hibbett of Mt. Juliet, on his pending retirement from the Tennessee Army National Guard. Not only has Bobby served our state and nation through the Guard, but he protects and serves daily as a Deputy District Attorney General for the 15th District. Well Done and thank you Sir. Hooah!
That's all for this week. See you at MJHS on Thursday, at 5:30. Take care and be safe.
R. Robertson
Friday, January 14, 2011
Update: January 14, 2011
Greetings MJ:
It has been a challenging week, with weather related issues and closings abounding. I want to commend our citizens for the patience and care in driving on the snow; PD records reflect there were 10 weather related auto crashes, but none were serious enough to require hospitalization.
We received info on our share of November sales tax. MJ continues to do well with an 8% increase over November 09. Thanks to all those who understand and continue to support our “Shop Mt. Juliet” campaign. Here’s a few other data points for 2010:
1. Sales tax was up every month of the year compared to 2009;
2. We issued 367 building permits in CY10. Compare that to 217 last year; that’s nearly a 60% gain in a year; and
3. 179 new business permits were issued in CY10. Think about it . . . that’s a new business nearly every other calendar day; and
4. Police calls for service was nearly 83,000; about 6,000 more calls for your police department than last year; and
5. There were 210 auto crashes, with 58 injuries. There were also 117 DUI’s. That’s too many of both.
6. Close to 400 animals were adopted from the Shelter. The Shelter now enters its third year without having spent tax dollars for animal food; and
7. Over 6,000 hours were donated last year by Shelter Volunteers. This contribution would have cost the city over $100,000 if the Volunteers were paid; and
8. Congratulations to the citizens of MJ for being the rated by the Tennessee Center for Policy Research as #1 Business Friendly City in the State! 2010 was a good year!
Here’s a business update from Mr. Martin, Economic Development Director:
- Zaxby’s is under Construction
- The Corner Pub Between the Lakes build-out underway
- A branch of the Wilson Bank and Trust is under construction
- Grading Work is underway for a branch of Region’s Bank
- Paddocks Dental build-out is underway
- Tokyo Restaurant build-out is on-going
- Ballroom Dancing Studio build-out is underway
- A Sushi Restaurant is undergoing construction
- A Greek Cuisine and Grill recently opened
- There was a closing on property within Paddocks for Murphy Oil
- Construction should start on LEXON Insurance this Spring
- A build out for The Party Zone is underway
- Plans have been approved for a Super Speedy Car Wash
- A cell tower is being constructed at Life Assembly Church
Pretty impressive list isn’t it? We’re also gearing up to make a special announcement about a federal agency who will soon have a footprint right here in MJ. Stay tuned.
The BOC will be holding another special work session on fire protection issues on Wednesday, 19 January, in City Hall starting at 4:00 p.m.
Make plans for a Father/Daughter Dance, hosted by the MJ Parks at the Charlie Daniels Rec Center, on Saturday, 5 February. It’s a perfect Valentine’s day gift for daddy’s little girl. For more info or to register, call the MJ Parks Department at 758-6522. Some other Parks and Rec coming initiatives are Zumba classes (a Latin jazz style of aerobics) and our own “Sarge’s Fitness Boot Camp”. Both are fun ways to help stick to that New Year’s resolution. Both programs will likely start in early February. For more info, call 758-6522.
Several adorable puppies at the Shelter looking for homes. There are Chow and Lab mix, or full Labs that are ready to leave now; the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for that special person. Speaking of the Shelter, don’t forget we still have some 2011 Animal Shelter Calendars and Commemorative bricks for sale. Your contribution will go straight to support the work of the Shelter, and its continuing mission of serving both our animals and the health and safety of our community.
On a final note, if you know anyone who might be interested in donating a couple acres on the south side, please give me or Kenny Martin a call at 754-2552. We’d be happy to talk about potential tax implications and good will associated with this initiative.
Have a safe Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. For those of you that have time on Monday, here are some local ceremonies honoring this great American.
It has been a challenging week, with weather related issues and closings abounding. I want to commend our citizens for the patience and care in driving on the snow; PD records reflect there were 10 weather related auto crashes, but none were serious enough to require hospitalization.
We received info on our share of November sales tax. MJ continues to do well with an 8% increase over November 09. Thanks to all those who understand and continue to support our “Shop Mt. Juliet” campaign. Here’s a few other data points for 2010:
1. Sales tax was up every month of the year compared to 2009;
2. We issued 367 building permits in CY10. Compare that to 217 last year; that’s nearly a 60% gain in a year; and
3. 179 new business permits were issued in CY10. Think about it . . . that’s a new business nearly every other calendar day; and
4. Police calls for service was nearly 83,000; about 6,000 more calls for your police department than last year; and
5. There were 210 auto crashes, with 58 injuries. There were also 117 DUI’s. That’s too many of both.
6. Close to 400 animals were adopted from the Shelter. The Shelter now enters its third year without having spent tax dollars for animal food; and
7. Over 6,000 hours were donated last year by Shelter Volunteers. This contribution would have cost the city over $100,000 if the Volunteers were paid; and
8. Congratulations to the citizens of MJ for being the rated by the Tennessee Center for Policy Research as #1 Business Friendly City in the State! 2010 was a good year!
Here’s a business update from Mr. Martin, Economic Development Director:
- Zaxby’s is under Construction
- The Corner Pub Between the Lakes build-out underway
- A branch of the Wilson Bank and Trust is under construction
- Grading Work is underway for a branch of Region’s Bank
- Paddocks Dental build-out is underway
- Tokyo Restaurant build-out is on-going
- Ballroom Dancing Studio build-out is underway
- A Sushi Restaurant is undergoing construction
- A Greek Cuisine and Grill recently opened
- There was a closing on property within Paddocks for Murphy Oil
- Construction should start on LEXON Insurance this Spring
- A build out for The Party Zone is underway
- Plans have been approved for a Super Speedy Car Wash
- A cell tower is being constructed at Life Assembly Church
Pretty impressive list isn’t it? We’re also gearing up to make a special announcement about a federal agency who will soon have a footprint right here in MJ. Stay tuned.
The BOC will be holding another special work session on fire protection issues on Wednesday, 19 January, in City Hall starting at 4:00 p.m.
Make plans for a Father/Daughter Dance, hosted by the MJ Parks at the Charlie Daniels Rec Center, on Saturday, 5 February. It’s a perfect Valentine’s day gift for daddy’s little girl. For more info or to register, call the MJ Parks Department at 758-6522. Some other Parks and Rec coming initiatives are Zumba classes (a Latin jazz style of aerobics) and our own “Sarge’s Fitness Boot Camp”. Both are fun ways to help stick to that New Year’s resolution. Both programs will likely start in early February. For more info, call 758-6522.
Several adorable puppies at the Shelter looking for homes. There are Chow and Lab mix, or full Labs that are ready to leave now; the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for that special person. Speaking of the Shelter, don’t forget we still have some 2011 Animal Shelter Calendars and Commemorative bricks for sale. Your contribution will go straight to support the work of the Shelter, and its continuing mission of serving both our animals and the health and safety of our community.
On a final note, if you know anyone who might be interested in donating a couple acres on the south side, please give me or Kenny Martin a call at 754-2552. We’d be happy to talk about potential tax implications and good will associated with this initiative.
Have a safe Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. For those of you that have time on Monday, here are some local ceremonies honoring this great American.
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day March
Nashville's Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day March usually begins at around noon on Monday at Jefferson Street and following the march there's also normally a MLK day convocation scheduled at Tennessee State University. - Scaritt Bennett Center
The Scaritt Bennett Center also offers their own Martin Luther events, every year that includes lectures and/or workshops all about Martin Luther King. - Discovery Center
On Monday, the Children's Museum at Discovery Center at Murfree Spring usually hosts a Free Admission day in honor of the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr. There's always plenty of special activities for the day
Until next time, stay safe and God Bless.
R. Robertson
Friday, January 7, 2011
Update: January 7, 2011
Good Afternoon:
It’s been some time since I last posted a note. I hope those reading this had a safe, and blessed holiday’s.
Have you clicked on the Tennessee Center for Policy Research logo at the top of our home page? It takes you to the articles about MJ’s selection as the “Number 1 Business Friendly City” in Tennessee. It’s an extraordinary honor to be selected as #1 from a pool of several hundred cities. Take a few minutes to read the articles and see why MJ came to the top.
Work progresses well on the North MJ Road widening project. The wooden utility poles are down; replaced by new metal ones paid for by the city. Drivers will see substantial work has been done on sidewalks and curbing on portions of the project. For the most part, all utility work has been complete, so the project is now focusing towards road widening.
Several new businesses have opened their doors in the last couple months: the Sonic near Publix #2; a Greek restaurant in the Valley Center, and Cheddars in the Paddock’s complex. By all accounts all are doing well.
CoC members and other business owners are encouraged to attend the Chamber’s next monthly luncheon, on Wednesday, 19 January, at the Rutland Place, starting at 11:15. Mayor Elam will be delivering the 2010 State of the City address, so it should be an interesting and educational presentation. For more details or to make a reservation, call the Chamber at 758-3478.
The Shelter needs your help. We’ve got 12 puppies looking for good homes. They’re a mix of Chow and Sheppard, making them absolutely adorable and friendly fur balls. If you didn’t get what you wanted for Christmas, here’s a chance to pick out your own personal friend and companion. Speaking of the Shelter, the year end stats are in, and thanks to our volunteers nearly 6,300 hours were donated last year. If we had to pay prevailing wages for their work hours, it would have cost us nearly $100k. Many thanks to this cadre of individuals whose call to duty is “Everything we do, we do for the Animals.”
Another interesting year end data point came up last week. We issued 367 new housing permits for 2010. Compare that to 217 for 2009. It’s easy to see why MJ is one of the state’s fastest growing cities.
On a final, personal note, all of us here at Team MJ, express our condolences and sorrow at the loss of Commissioner Jim Bradshaw’s daughter last month. Jim, our thoughts and prayers have been with you.
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
R. Robertson
It’s been some time since I last posted a note. I hope those reading this had a safe, and blessed holiday’s.
Have you clicked on the Tennessee Center for Policy Research logo at the top of our home page? It takes you to the articles about MJ’s selection as the “Number 1 Business Friendly City” in Tennessee. It’s an extraordinary honor to be selected as #1 from a pool of several hundred cities. Take a few minutes to read the articles and see why MJ came to the top.
Work progresses well on the North MJ Road widening project. The wooden utility poles are down; replaced by new metal ones paid for by the city. Drivers will see substantial work has been done on sidewalks and curbing on portions of the project. For the most part, all utility work has been complete, so the project is now focusing towards road widening.
Several new businesses have opened their doors in the last couple months: the Sonic near Publix #2; a Greek restaurant in the Valley Center, and Cheddars in the Paddock’s complex. By all accounts all are doing well.
CoC members and other business owners are encouraged to attend the Chamber’s next monthly luncheon, on Wednesday, 19 January, at the Rutland Place, starting at 11:15. Mayor Elam will be delivering the 2010 State of the City address, so it should be an interesting and educational presentation. For more details or to make a reservation, call the Chamber at 758-3478.
The Shelter needs your help. We’ve got 12 puppies looking for good homes. They’re a mix of Chow and Sheppard, making them absolutely adorable and friendly fur balls. If you didn’t get what you wanted for Christmas, here’s a chance to pick out your own personal friend and companion. Speaking of the Shelter, the year end stats are in, and thanks to our volunteers nearly 6,300 hours were donated last year. If we had to pay prevailing wages for their work hours, it would have cost us nearly $100k. Many thanks to this cadre of individuals whose call to duty is “Everything we do, we do for the Animals.”
Another interesting year end data point came up last week. We issued 367 new housing permits for 2010. Compare that to 217 for 2009. It’s easy to see why MJ is one of the state’s fastest growing cities.
On a final, personal note, all of us here at Team MJ, express our condolences and sorrow at the loss of Commissioner Jim Bradshaw’s daughter last month. Jim, our thoughts and prayers have been with you.
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
R. Robertson
Friday, October 8, 2010
Update: October 8, 2010
Good Morning MJ:
Here’s a few items of interest and FYI:
Tomorrow (Saturday, 9 October) is “Halloween in the Park”, usually the biggest Parks and Recreation event of the year. Activities start at 11:00 a.m. and last thru 4:00 with several costume contests, candy and prizes and lots of fun for the entire family. As an added treat, while the kids are off doing their thing, we’ll have a “City Booth” where mom and dad can come by and check up on city programs and activities. Come join us and at least 75 other vendors in celebrating this annual Fall classic. All activities take place in Charlie Daniels Park. Remember, parking can be a challenge, so plan to come early and spend the day. There’s plenty of food and beverage vendors on-site. See you there.
This Monday (11 Oct) we’ll have a wonderful opportunity to honor and pay respects to the family of Spec Michael Stansbery, who recently lost his life in Afghanistan while serving us. There’s a time honored tradition of providing a handmade quilt to the family of a fallen soldier, and this Monday, at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall, along with the scheduled Board of Commissioners meeting, members of the MJ Quilting Association will present Michael’s family with a quilt. We hope you can join us and want to send out a special invitation to all veterans to be there. If you can’t make it, please tune in to Channel 3.
Work continues to progress well on North Mt. Juliet Road. Motorists will certainly notice the infrastructure is taking shape with curb and gutters being poured. While the official “opening date” set by TDOT is October 2012, barring horrific weather or other unforeseen challenges, the road should be drivable well before that. Again, please remember the merchants of NMJR and consider them when shopping or dining.
Tonight is special for the staff and volunteers of the MJ Animal Shelter. Tonight we’ll recognize the best of the best, those who have volunteered 90 hours or more, with a special dinner on their behalf. That roster includes: Jon Gray, Susan Tant, Lonnie Cannon, Dawn Turner, Holly Ross, Heather and Jacob Rampey, Heather Cravener, Tanya Beadles, Marilyn Pugh, Hannah Beadles, Flora Gibson, Hazel Lauer, and Trisha Morgan. Just a couple weeks ago the MJ Animal Shelter won one of the Greater Nashville Regional Council Awards of Excellence for its “Therapy Dog” program of taking dogs to the various nursing homes in the area. Our Shelter is renown throughout the region and the state and the standard bearer for quality programs and services. On behalf of all of us on Team MJ, the Mayor and Commissioners, and most importantly from the citizens, thanks those who go above and beyond each day to serve our community and its animals.
On a final note, our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Det. Ric Risner (Ret). Ric passed away this week after gallantly battling diabetes and other complications for several years. He proudly and honorably served the City of Mt. Juliet for many years until his health would not allow him to serve any longer. Ric helped make this community the pride of Middle Tennessee, and today we want to thank him for him and his family for his selfless service.
Take care and God Bless.
R. Robertson
Here’s a few items of interest and FYI:
Tomorrow (Saturday, 9 October) is “Halloween in the Park”, usually the biggest Parks and Recreation event of the year. Activities start at 11:00 a.m. and last thru 4:00 with several costume contests, candy and prizes and lots of fun for the entire family. As an added treat, while the kids are off doing their thing, we’ll have a “City Booth” where mom and dad can come by and check up on city programs and activities. Come join us and at least 75 other vendors in celebrating this annual Fall classic. All activities take place in Charlie Daniels Park. Remember, parking can be a challenge, so plan to come early and spend the day. There’s plenty of food and beverage vendors on-site. See you there.
This Monday (11 Oct) we’ll have a wonderful opportunity to honor and pay respects to the family of Spec Michael Stansbery, who recently lost his life in Afghanistan while serving us. There’s a time honored tradition of providing a handmade quilt to the family of a fallen soldier, and this Monday, at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall, along with the scheduled Board of Commissioners meeting, members of the MJ Quilting Association will present Michael’s family with a quilt. We hope you can join us and want to send out a special invitation to all veterans to be there. If you can’t make it, please tune in to Channel 3.
Work continues to progress well on North Mt. Juliet Road. Motorists will certainly notice the infrastructure is taking shape with curb and gutters being poured. While the official “opening date” set by TDOT is October 2012, barring horrific weather or other unforeseen challenges, the road should be drivable well before that. Again, please remember the merchants of NMJR and consider them when shopping or dining.
Tonight is special for the staff and volunteers of the MJ Animal Shelter. Tonight we’ll recognize the best of the best, those who have volunteered 90 hours or more, with a special dinner on their behalf. That roster includes: Jon Gray, Susan Tant, Lonnie Cannon, Dawn Turner, Holly Ross, Heather and Jacob Rampey, Heather Cravener, Tanya Beadles, Marilyn Pugh, Hannah Beadles, Flora Gibson, Hazel Lauer, and Trisha Morgan. Just a couple weeks ago the MJ Animal Shelter won one of the Greater Nashville Regional Council Awards of Excellence for its “Therapy Dog” program of taking dogs to the various nursing homes in the area. Our Shelter is renown throughout the region and the state and the standard bearer for quality programs and services. On behalf of all of us on Team MJ, the Mayor and Commissioners, and most importantly from the citizens, thanks those who go above and beyond each day to serve our community and its animals.
On a final note, our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Det. Ric Risner (Ret). Ric passed away this week after gallantly battling diabetes and other complications for several years. He proudly and honorably served the City of Mt. Juliet for many years until his health would not allow him to serve any longer. Ric helped make this community the pride of Middle Tennessee, and today we want to thank him for him and his family for his selfless service.
Take care and God Bless.
R. Robertson
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Update: 7/22/10
Good Evening MJ:
Yesterday was a great day for MJ. Yesterday Mayor Elam, City and County Commissioners, and community leaders broke ground on the West Division Greenway. I encourage you to click the link below to get the full details of the groundbreaking and an good update on the Greenway. It is certainly a tremendously exciting project that promises to help transform the quality of life in our city.
http://www.cityofmtjuliet.org/Greenway_Groundbreaking.cfm
Charlie Daniels Planet Playground is back in business. During the short hiatus to fix equipment that had been vandalized, the Parks and Rec crew struggled in the blistering heat and humidity to upgrade much of the entire play area. Next time you are at Charlie Daniels, take a stroll through Planet Playground and see how great it looks. On that note, MJ dog lovers absolutely need to check out the “Bark Park” at South Park in the Belinda City area. Why? Your furry friend now has an automatic water trough to enjoy. Just the thing for those “dog days” of summer (. . . pun intended!)
Speaking of pets, the other day I received a progress report from our volunteer coordinator, Jon Gray. Jon wrote:
“From 13 December 2008, the day the Shelter opened its doors, through 9 July, 2010, or just 17 months later, the Shelter has taken in 906 animals and 869 have been adopted. That’s a 96% adoption rate. Unbelievable!”
Yes Jon, that certainly is unbelievable. There’s not a public shelter in the country that can make this kind of claim. What is also “unbelievable” is that every bit of food used in the last 17 months has been donated!
Want to get involved? The pets of Mt. Juliet need volunteers. For more info call Sgt. Keith Youmans at 773-5533, or email Mr. Jon Gray at pastorjongray@aol.com
Take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
Yesterday was a great day for MJ. Yesterday Mayor Elam, City and County Commissioners, and community leaders broke ground on the West Division Greenway. I encourage you to click the link below to get the full details of the groundbreaking and an good update on the Greenway. It is certainly a tremendously exciting project that promises to help transform the quality of life in our city.
http://www.cityofmtjuliet.org/Greenway_Groundbreaking.cfm
Charlie Daniels Planet Playground is back in business. During the short hiatus to fix equipment that had been vandalized, the Parks and Rec crew struggled in the blistering heat and humidity to upgrade much of the entire play area. Next time you are at Charlie Daniels, take a stroll through Planet Playground and see how great it looks. On that note, MJ dog lovers absolutely need to check out the “Bark Park” at South Park in the Belinda City area. Why? Your furry friend now has an automatic water trough to enjoy. Just the thing for those “dog days” of summer (. . . pun intended!)
Speaking of pets, the other day I received a progress report from our volunteer coordinator, Jon Gray. Jon wrote:
“From 13 December 2008, the day the Shelter opened its doors, through 9 July, 2010, or just 17 months later, the Shelter has taken in 906 animals and 869 have been adopted. That’s a 96% adoption rate. Unbelievable!”
Yes Jon, that certainly is unbelievable. There’s not a public shelter in the country that can make this kind of claim. What is also “unbelievable” is that every bit of food used in the last 17 months has been donated!
Want to get involved? The pets of Mt. Juliet need volunteers. For more info call Sgt. Keith Youmans at 773-5533, or email Mr. Jon Gray at pastorjongray@aol.com
Take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
City Manager Update - July 13, 2010
Good afternoon MJ;
A short note today:
We received our sales tax receipts for June and the city took in $105k more this year than in 09. The numbers were $488k in 2010 compared to $383k last year. Overall MJ receipts constituted about 40% of all sales tax receipts in the county . . .nearly a half million reasons to continue to “Shop MJ!”
Early voting will be at the Charlie Daniels Rec Center starting 16 July. Stay tuned for more details.
I received an anonymous note based on a posting to a recent blog about Fall Softball. Yes, Fall Softball will not be held at Mundy Park this year due to the temporary relocation of Youth Football practice from Charlie Daniels Park to Mundy several days a week. We truly regret the disruption to our softball community, but over utilization and ever increasing traffic at CD Park during football season have moved the Parks staff to this option. We are hoping efforts towards developing new multipurpose fields at the Bel Air complex in CY 11 will help alleviate the situation.
I also mentioned in an earlier blog that the MJ Board of Commissioners approved aggressive execution of State Street Aid money in repairing and/or repaving more MJ streets than we’ve done in many years. All totaled nearly $490k has been earmarked for street repairs/repaving this year. The list includes a priority needs of streets from all points around the city, with some of the names including: Bass Drive, Springhill Road, segments of West Division and Old Lebanon Dirt Rd, Jefferson Dr., and Sunrise Circle as well as portions of Belinda Parkway.
Kudos to the MJPD’s Detectives Bonnie Harris and David Stolinsky for their exceptional professionalism and diligence in the recent child abuse/murder case. They are a treasure to our community.
A final note: the Animal Shelter numbers are running high. We need your help! Get involved by sharing a few hours a month as a Shelter volunteer. Better yet, adopt a dog, cat or both and become a volunteer as well. You will be glad you did.
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
R. Robertson
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Update: 6/22/10
Good Afternoon MJ:
It’s been a while since I last spoke with you so here’s a few items of interest and FYI’s:
1. City Hall will be the site of a County Mayoral debate on Saturday, 26 June, starting at 9:30 a.m. As I understand all three candidates, Don Fox, Randall Hutto and Phillip Warren will participate in an event sponsored and conducted by the Wilson County Conservative Alliance. City Hall only seats about 70 individuals, so if you are interested in attending please ensure you arrive early. The debate will be broadcast on Channel 3, with taped editions televised over the following week.
2. CALLING ALL RESIDENTS!!!! There will be a City Update on Tuesday, 29 June, starting at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall. Though originally developed for Home Owner Association leaders from across the city, the forum is open all residents. Are you interested in issues or programs affecting your Police Department, Parks, Economic Development, or what’s happening on North Mt. Juliet Road? Briefings will be given by various City Department Heads on those topics and more. Invite your friends; light refreshments will be served. Remember, City Hall seating is limited, so get there early. This event will also be televised with later showings on Channel 3.
3. MJ’s 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza will be on Sunday, 4 July, starting at dusk from the Providence Mall area. Come early and enjoy what always promises to be a great event in the life of our city. Mr. Tom Needham, of Needham’s Nursery, has again organized a spectacular evening, with Mt. Juliet skies aglow and shouts or “oughs and aaughs”. Recommend bringing your lawn chairs and blankets.
4. Looking for something a little different to do on a Friday evening? How about catching the Music City Star on its evening run into downtown Nashville? The Star departs the MJ station at 7:00 p.m., and leaves the Nashville River Front Station at 9:30 pm. What to spend a little longer downtown? Then catch the train leaving MJ at 5:00. Buy your tickets at the Mt. Juliet City Hall or Kroger.
5. Did you catch Monday’s cover page of The Tennessean, with a feature article on new housing in Wilson County? There was a companion piece that evening by Channel 5 reporter Mark Bellinger (available on their web page). While the discussion was about Wilson County, the focal point was Mt. Juliet. Here’s a couple data points: Between January and mid June this year we’ve seen about 160 new housing permits issued, compared to around 60 for the same time period last year. It’s also been reported that Wilson County is Tennessee’s fastest growing county; and it’s 29th out of the top 100 fastest growing counties in the United States. What’s great about our town is how we’ve been able to retain lots of our southern charm and rural atmosphere despite exponential growth.
6. The North Mt. Juliet Road widening project is progressing well. Be on the lookout for the “thermometers” at both ends the road, this blog, Channel 3 and the city’s web page for updates.
7. Lock your cars. Whether at home, at work or when shopping; don’t leave your car unlocked. We’ve seen increases in car burglaries in the last few weeks. Car thieves are opportunistic; don’t give them an invitation by leaving your car unlocked and your valuable is plain sight.
8. A couple weeks ago, a handful of volunteers worked together to raise over $7.5k for the Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter. Last weekend, in cooperation with the Dairy Queen on Lebanon Road, the MJ Animal Shelter volunteers (. . . or “Greenshirters” as they prefer to be known) raised another couple hundred dollars; all going directly back into caring for our city’s animals. A special thanks goes out to these brave souls who didn’t let things like near 100 degree temperatures keep them down. Thanks ladies and Gentlemen for all you do! Keep up the hard charge.
9. On a final note, City Hall and other city facilities will be very limited between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 29 June, for an employee luncheon and various training sessions. The doors will be open, but normal services may be slightly delayed until after 1:00 p.m.
Stay out of the heat, take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
It’s been a while since I last spoke with you so here’s a few items of interest and FYI’s:
1. City Hall will be the site of a County Mayoral debate on Saturday, 26 June, starting at 9:30 a.m. As I understand all three candidates, Don Fox, Randall Hutto and Phillip Warren will participate in an event sponsored and conducted by the Wilson County Conservative Alliance. City Hall only seats about 70 individuals, so if you are interested in attending please ensure you arrive early. The debate will be broadcast on Channel 3, with taped editions televised over the following week.
2. CALLING ALL RESIDENTS!!!! There will be a City Update on Tuesday, 29 June, starting at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall. Though originally developed for Home Owner Association leaders from across the city, the forum is open all residents. Are you interested in issues or programs affecting your Police Department, Parks, Economic Development, or what’s happening on North Mt. Juliet Road? Briefings will be given by various City Department Heads on those topics and more. Invite your friends; light refreshments will be served. Remember, City Hall seating is limited, so get there early. This event will also be televised with later showings on Channel 3.
3. MJ’s 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza will be on Sunday, 4 July, starting at dusk from the Providence Mall area. Come early and enjoy what always promises to be a great event in the life of our city. Mr. Tom Needham, of Needham’s Nursery, has again organized a spectacular evening, with Mt. Juliet skies aglow and shouts or “oughs and aaughs”. Recommend bringing your lawn chairs and blankets.
4. Looking for something a little different to do on a Friday evening? How about catching the Music City Star on its evening run into downtown Nashville? The Star departs the MJ station at 7:00 p.m., and leaves the Nashville River Front Station at 9:30 pm. What to spend a little longer downtown? Then catch the train leaving MJ at 5:00. Buy your tickets at the Mt. Juliet City Hall or Kroger.
5. Did you catch Monday’s cover page of The Tennessean, with a feature article on new housing in Wilson County? There was a companion piece that evening by Channel 5 reporter Mark Bellinger (available on their web page). While the discussion was about Wilson County, the focal point was Mt. Juliet. Here’s a couple data points: Between January and mid June this year we’ve seen about 160 new housing permits issued, compared to around 60 for the same time period last year. It’s also been reported that Wilson County is Tennessee’s fastest growing county; and it’s 29th out of the top 100 fastest growing counties in the United States. What’s great about our town is how we’ve been able to retain lots of our southern charm and rural atmosphere despite exponential growth.
6. The North Mt. Juliet Road widening project is progressing well. Be on the lookout for the “thermometers” at both ends the road, this blog, Channel 3 and the city’s web page for updates.
7. Lock your cars. Whether at home, at work or when shopping; don’t leave your car unlocked. We’ve seen increases in car burglaries in the last few weeks. Car thieves are opportunistic; don’t give them an invitation by leaving your car unlocked and your valuable is plain sight.
8. A couple weeks ago, a handful of volunteers worked together to raise over $7.5k for the Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter. Last weekend, in cooperation with the Dairy Queen on Lebanon Road, the MJ Animal Shelter volunteers (. . . or “Greenshirters” as they prefer to be known) raised another couple hundred dollars; all going directly back into caring for our city’s animals. A special thanks goes out to these brave souls who didn’t let things like near 100 degree temperatures keep them down. Thanks ladies and Gentlemen for all you do! Keep up the hard charge.
9. On a final note, City Hall and other city facilities will be very limited between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 29 June, for an employee luncheon and various training sessions. The doors will be open, but normal services may be slightly delayed until after 1:00 p.m.
Stay out of the heat, take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
Friday, May 28, 2010
Update: 5/28/10
Good Afternoon MJ:
Here’s a few items of interest for those on Nixle or who follow the City Manager blog:
1. We’ve finished the initial draft of the city budget and overall things are looking fairly good. Generally you can classify MJ revenue from three primary sources: sales tax, court revenue and development/building related. The good news is sales tax receipts are up. While the numbers are not astronomical, sales tax receipts are better than projected. The challenging news is both court and building related revenues are down. While court revenue is off, again, it isn’t an astronomical number. On the building side though, just like virtually everywhere else, anything related to new building has taken pretty much of a nose dive. When you put all three into the mix, the overall news is the city has a slightly better revenue stream than projected. The real challenge is each of our primary forms of revenue aren’t static; predicting dollars associated with them with accuracy during a recession can be difficult at best.
2. This is an all points bulletin for volunteers at the Animal Shelter. The numbers of animals housed are on the rise, and while we have a great cadre of volunteers, too few are carrying the load. Give the Shelter a couple hours a week and you’ll be hooked for life. Interested? Check with Sgt Keith Youmans or any staff member or volunteer at the MJ Animal Shelter. Their number is 773-5533.
3. We’ve named a new Parks and Rec Director, Mr. Jay Cameli, of Mt. Juliet. Jay has been a MJ resident for nearly 20 years. He’s a graduate of Purdue University and has a license in Landscape Architecture. Jay has tremendous experience in greenway design and grant development, and will be a tremendous asset to the Parks Department and the city team. On that note, all of us in City Hall want to thank Mr. Rocky Lee for his leadership as Acting Parks Director this last year. During his tenure the Parks crew unveiled the new Rec Center expansion, built the para course and skate park at Charlie Daniels Park, build a Frisbee Golf Course at Mundy Park, fielded new programs like Futsal, and our semiannual flea markets and fashion shows. He also led the team through clean up and repair from the historic 2010 flood. Thanks for all you have done for the city and its citizens Mr. Lee.
4. If you drive North Mt. Juliet Road, you have probably see the two “thermometers” that are tracking the pace of work on this major road and utility project. We are nearing the end of the first year. While it may seem slow, overall the progress has been on track. It has been an extraordinary wet winter and summer, and the various crews are doing a fine job working with businesses and traffic to keep things moving.
5. Please encourage your friends and others within the community to sign up for Nixle. During the recent floods, we were able to communicate in near real time with over 1k of you who are on the Nixle distribution list. We’ve received many words of support, encouragement and thanks from across the city from those who followed the near hourly changing events of early May via Nixle. It’s fast, easy and can be tailored to the type of information you desire. Just tell your friends to go to the city web page (www.cityofmtjuliet.org) or to www.nixle.com for instructions.
6. On a final note, please take time during this weekend to remember what Memorial day is all about. Our thanks and prayers go to the men, women and families who have given their lives or lost a love one in defense of this great nation. In specific my thoughts will be with Private Ernest Robertson, MIA and later classified as KIA from the Yellow River Campaign of the Korean War, and with those whom I have lead and served who are no longer with us.
Take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
Here’s a few items of interest for those on Nixle or who follow the City Manager blog:
1. We’ve finished the initial draft of the city budget and overall things are looking fairly good. Generally you can classify MJ revenue from three primary sources: sales tax, court revenue and development/building related. The good news is sales tax receipts are up. While the numbers are not astronomical, sales tax receipts are better than projected. The challenging news is both court and building related revenues are down. While court revenue is off, again, it isn’t an astronomical number. On the building side though, just like virtually everywhere else, anything related to new building has taken pretty much of a nose dive. When you put all three into the mix, the overall news is the city has a slightly better revenue stream than projected. The real challenge is each of our primary forms of revenue aren’t static; predicting dollars associated with them with accuracy during a recession can be difficult at best.
2. This is an all points bulletin for volunteers at the Animal Shelter. The numbers of animals housed are on the rise, and while we have a great cadre of volunteers, too few are carrying the load. Give the Shelter a couple hours a week and you’ll be hooked for life. Interested? Check with Sgt Keith Youmans or any staff member or volunteer at the MJ Animal Shelter. Their number is 773-5533.
3. We’ve named a new Parks and Rec Director, Mr. Jay Cameli, of Mt. Juliet. Jay has been a MJ resident for nearly 20 years. He’s a graduate of Purdue University and has a license in Landscape Architecture. Jay has tremendous experience in greenway design and grant development, and will be a tremendous asset to the Parks Department and the city team. On that note, all of us in City Hall want to thank Mr. Rocky Lee for his leadership as Acting Parks Director this last year. During his tenure the Parks crew unveiled the new Rec Center expansion, built the para course and skate park at Charlie Daniels Park, build a Frisbee Golf Course at Mundy Park, fielded new programs like Futsal, and our semiannual flea markets and fashion shows. He also led the team through clean up and repair from the historic 2010 flood. Thanks for all you have done for the city and its citizens Mr. Lee.
4. If you drive North Mt. Juliet Road, you have probably see the two “thermometers” that are tracking the pace of work on this major road and utility project. We are nearing the end of the first year. While it may seem slow, overall the progress has been on track. It has been an extraordinary wet winter and summer, and the various crews are doing a fine job working with businesses and traffic to keep things moving.
5. Please encourage your friends and others within the community to sign up for Nixle. During the recent floods, we were able to communicate in near real time with over 1k of you who are on the Nixle distribution list. We’ve received many words of support, encouragement and thanks from across the city from those who followed the near hourly changing events of early May via Nixle. It’s fast, easy and can be tailored to the type of information you desire. Just tell your friends to go to the city web page (www.cityofmtjuliet.org) or to www.nixle.com for instructions.
6. On a final note, please take time during this weekend to remember what Memorial day is all about. Our thanks and prayers go to the men, women and families who have given their lives or lost a love one in defense of this great nation. In specific my thoughts will be with Private Ernest Robertson, MIA and later classified as KIA from the Yellow River Campaign of the Korean War, and with those whom I have lead and served who are no longer with us.
Take care and talk with you later.
R. Robertson
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