New Year, fresh start!  After talking with our writers, we are trimming our numbers somewhat but growing in other ways.  I want to express my appreciation to Michael, Fortune Cookies, GingerSnaps, Chef Eleni, and Biane for their contributions these last few years and say I’m delighted they’ll continue to stop by now and again with comments and conversation!  I extend an open invitation to each of them that if they ever want to come back, you will always be welcome.

Those who are staying include Chip, View from the Lake, Ivy, and Cricket.  I know time is a precious resource for them so when they do write, I’m tickled.

Finally, we do have a new writer for the site and it may take some of you by surprise.  Mike Slinker has confirmed his invitation to give updates on a couple of exciting project he’s working on.  The first is to establish a community center for LaVergne in conjunction with the Boys & Girls Club, the Police Athletic League, and even the senior citizens center.  He is working with county and city officials to try to move this forward and we are hoping that a facility like this would include a gymnasium and … drumroll … a SWIMMING POOL.  (You know that’s near and dear to my heart.)

The other project is helping to develop a communication portal that will tie-in our own site TiLaV with the Hob Nob people, local businesses, and our city business (meetings, etc.)  This is LaVergne may be just a link on the bigger site, but Mike and I will definitely keep you updated on the details as we know them.  For a look at what Hob Nob is, here’s the Murfreesboro portal.

Leadership for this city comes in many shapes and forms.  I am happy that we have Senna on our board to ask tough questions and serve as the voice of reason.  I am pleased we have residents like Mike who have the courage to run for office and – even in defeat – to move ahead with ideas that will benefit the residents of this town.  And I am quite proud that we have this web site that energizes the people in our community to discuss issues, good ol’ boys, share photos, and – frankly – almost serve as a modern-day newspaper.

And speaking of leadership, I want to extend an open invitation to our elected officials (Mayor Erwin, the aldermen and alderwomen) to write for this site if they so desire.  If they don’t want the official role of  “author,” I do welcome any submitted columns or articles they wish to share.

Now stay off the roads if you can, keep warm, and enjoy this snowy day.

Let’s open this thread and hear your thoughts!