Chattarati Articles in Signal Mountain

Signal Mtn. Candidates Talk Growth, Taxes and Civic Engagement

2010-10-20T10:00:00Z

Last week, Signal Mountain Town Council candidates responded to the question "Why are you running?" This week, the question is "What do you see as the major issues?" Signal Mountain is a small town, so it's no surprise that the same issues were brought up by several of the candidates.

Growth, whether limiting it or spurring it, tops the list for candidates, followed by keeping the public involved in governance. Maintaining existing public amenities and adding more in conjunction with budgetary and tax concerns round out the list.

When asked about what they see as the major issues, most of the candidates included growth in their responses:

Dick Gee: "The over-riding issue is contending with and addressing future residential and business growth, not only in Signal Mountain proper, but also in Walden and in Hamilton County. This growth will affect many aspects of our culture: traffic, security, sanitation, fire protection, just to mention a few. There is also the issue that some residents don't want this growth to occur at all. How we come together to address these issues is our biggest challenge."

Bill Wallace: "Approach growth and development with an open mind but always keep the unique character of Signal Mountain as the top priority. There are lots of creative and innovative ways to create neighborhoods and business districts that could enhance the values and appearance of the town."

Susan Robertson: "I joined the Town Council almost four years ago at the urging of citizens who were concerned about growth. Since I've been in office, our council has involved the community and together we created a new land use plan based on equal density throughout the town and principles of conservation development. Our planning commission, with the council's blessing, has worked diligently to complete new subdivisions, regulations to assure future growth in the town will be reasonable and sustainable."

Frank Preston: "Residential and business development is an issue many residents have mentioned. I have seen the mountain change and grow over the years. Both change and growth can be a positive thing if they are well planned and managed."

Jason Bowling discussed growth in the context of the budget and maintaining existing services, rather than as a stand-alone issue.

Making sure that residents are heard and represented was the second issue several of the candidates believed to be critical.

"I believe that government is intended to serve the public," Bowling said. "If elected, I commit to leadership based on the principles of transparency and community engagement." In a similar vein, Preston said, "Positive communication with residents is critical for our town to operate efficiently."

Jeremy Rardin didn't specifically say that involving the community is an issue, but he did say that he frequently talks to residents in order to gather input and ideas, and that "residents must have proper representation."

Wallace feels strongly about making sure residents are involved. "I've talked to lots of folks over the last few weeks who used to be more involved who now feel they're being left out," he said. "I believe government should be inclusive, respectful and responsive to its citizens; after all, it's their government."

Taking care of existing infrastructure and adding more while staying within a carefully devised budget represent critical issues for several of the candidates.

Robertson mentioned several specific projects that she believes need to be completed: "Repair/replacement of the road up the mountain, improved design standards, sewer expansion and clean streams as well as striving for more grants for sidewalk/bike paths and repairs to town facilities such as the swimming pool, the gym and the MACC."

Public spaces also rated as an issue for Wallace who said, "I also believe the town needs to evaluate and rehabilitate, if necessary, the public areas and recreational facilities starting with the town hall area and swimming pool."

Rardin was less specific in his answer but did say that he believes the development of a town center and infrastructure needs are recurring themes he hears when talking to residents about issues facing the town. He also stated that budget priorities are an issue.

Bowling added taxes to the list of issues, although it was in the context of growth and maintaining services to the community.

"I believe the services currently provided to the residents of the town of Signal Mountain will continue to become more expensive," he said. "I also believe that a diverse tax base is a strong tax base. I will work to develop achievable strategic plans and ordinances to compensate for this anticipated escalation of cost through the responsible continued development necessary to sustain Signal Mountain and our small town character."

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Why Would Anyone Be a Candidate for the Signal Mountain Town Council?

2010-10-14T13:30:00Z

Across the country, voters are apathetic. Generally, we feel our voices — our votes — have no impact whatsoever on the way government operates. Arguably, the elections in which our votes are most important are local elections, and yet, those are the elections that get the least attention and for which the fewest voters come out.

Candidates for positions in local government must contend with the issues of the day-to-day administration of town business but also with a lack of motivation on the part of constituents. Given the fact that most people lead already busy lives and high-stress levels are rampant in our society, I wondered, "Why would anyone want to run for the Signal Mountain Town Council?" Happily, it was easy to ask this year's candidates.

For Dick Gee, Bill Wallace and Frank Preston, the answer is "to give back." All three candidates are long-time residents of the mountain, have raised families in the community and feel now is the time to offer their knowledge and abilities to the town. These three gentlemen have retired and feel they have enough time to serve in public office.

Wallace has served as chairman of the Mountain Arts Community Center Board of Directors, and Preston has served on the town's Personnel Committee and is currently its chairman. Gee has extensive business experience and feels that experience could be of benefit to the town. The three candidates have widely varying positions on issues, but are running for the same reason: to contribute to the town they love.

Susan Robertson is currently a member of the Town Council and is running as an incumbent. She feels it is important to continue the projects and work she has been a part of for the last four years. "I want to bring my experience to the next council along with my commitment to continue to work hard and listen to the community and keep it involved," she said.

For Jason Bowling, a veteran, running for a seat on the Town Council is about fulfilling a sense of duty and responsibility. From being an Eagle Scout to enlisting in the Army, Jason has been guided by "a strong sense of obligation to service and civic responsibility."

Jeremy Rardin wants to "bring youth, energy and action to our town." He wants to get more younger people involved in governance. He said, "I represent the voice of a younger generation of residents" — perhaps making him a counterpoint for the three retired folk running for a seat.

This year, three seats on the Town Council will be filled as a result of the election. As the Town Council is made up of five members, including the mayor and vice mayor, this election will determine the majority of the council. Here is an explanation of how the system works from the Signal Mountain website:

The town of Signal Mountain operates under a council/town manager form of government. The council has certain responsibilities including approval of the annual budgets, tax rates, ordinances, resolutions, staffing levels, contracts, personnel policy, purchasing policy and other policies.

A five-member council is elected by town voters with three of the five members running every two years on even numbered years, matching the national elections. Of the three top vote-getters, two receive four-year terms and one (the third place finisher) receives a two-year term. This ensures that three members of the council will be up for election every two years, and two will remain seated to provide a level of continuity for the next council.

The council elects the mayor and the vice mayor from among its membership. The mayor presides at council meetings and is the titular head of the town. The vice mayor acts as mayor in the mayor's absence.

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Annual Fall Hodgepodge Is This Weekend

2010-09-29T09:00:00Z

The annual Hodgepodge is a favorite fall event for Signal Mountain residents, and, increasingly, for people from other communities around Chattanooga as well. The festival is a fundraiser for the Mountain Arts Community Center, and it just gets better each year. You can get in on the fun on Friday, Oct. 1 from 11 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

This year, there will be a few new twists to the festival: Kidspodge (an area just for kids to have), live music and food vendors. The goal is to make it fun for the whole family. Attendees have used Hodgepodge as a great way to get a jump on holiday shopping, and this year there will be more artisans and craftspeople displaying their wares than in the past. Vendors are coming from all over Tennessee and the surrounding area.

You can learn more about the event on the MACC Foundation Fall Hodgepodge Facebook Page. Some of the vendors will include Sweet Chocolate Swirls, The Hot Chocolatier, Caricatures by Johnny Stockman, Sunshine Girl Designs, Everyday Eclectic and many others.

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District 2 County Commission Candidate Forum

2010-07-16T16:07:56Z

There will be a forum for the two District 2 County Commission candidates on July 22 at 7:00 pm at the Town Hall at Alexian Village.

Via paulmhendricks.blogspot.com

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The Brau Boil Offers Shrimp, Beer and Fabulous Views

2010-06-23T14:15:00Z

Pratt Homes, the Raptor's Roost and the American Cancer Society have put together the Brau Boil this Saturday. The event will be at the Raptor's Roost on Signal Mountain and all proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society.

Tickets are $25, food will be provided by Blue Orleans, and it all starts at 4 p.m. Until twilight you can stuff yourself with shrimp and beer while enjoying good company and fabulous views.

If you come, bring your appetite, your friends, a lawn chair and, if you don't like beer, a bottle of wine. The Raptor's Roost is located on the brow on Signal Mountain. To get there, take Roberts Mill Road to the top of the mountain, stay to the left, then follow the signs.

You must purchase tickets in advance and they are available at Pratt Homes Information Centers:

Hampstead Hall on Snowhill Road
Frontgate in Ooltewah on Mountain View Road
Downing Green at Bill Reed and Ooltewah-Ringgold Road
Overlook on Hixson Pike across from Highland Plaza
Horse Creek Farms at Mountain Creek Road and Runyan
Stonebrook on Ooltewah-Ringgold Road across from the new Bi-Lo

Tickets can also be purchased at the Keller Williams Realty Office at 202 Manufacturers Road or by calling the American Cancer Society at (423)267-8613 for will call tickets.

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Want To Shave Your Head? Here’s Your Chance

2010-06-03T14:30:47Z

Good causes are everywhere. Whether you care about the arts, literacy, homelessness, the food distribution system, education or any other of a myriad of issues, there are opportunities to do good all around us. Few circumstances, however, are as heart-rending and difficult for families as when a child is diagnosed with cancer. Signal Mountain resident Jack Skrowronnek has decided to do what he can to help. He has created a video explaining what he is doing and why.

Last year, 10-year-old Jack read a book written by Jordan Sonnenblick, Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie. The book is about an 8th grade boy whose 5-year-old brother is diagnosed with leukemia. The book inspired Jack to get involved and he decided to raise money through the St. Baldrick's Foundation.

People who participate in St. Baldrick's events volunteer to shave their heads to "stand in solidarity" with children undergoing cancer treatment. Last year, Jack raised $1,200 by shaving his head. St. Baldrick's funds more research grants with the goal of curing childhood cancer than any other institution except the U.S. government.

Jack decided to shave his head again this year, and he is inviting others to join him at a public event in Signal Mountain. On June 26 at 3:30 p.m., Jack and other volunteers will have their heads shaved at Sweet Gipsy Bakeshop Café. Author Jordan Sonnenblick will attend the event via Skype, and local musician Dana Rogers will provide entertainment.

If you would like to support Jack in his mission to help find a cure for cancer, but you aren't quite ready to shave your head, donations of any size are welcome, and volunteers are still needed. There is also a Facebook page to help you stay up-to-date. Come by Sweet Gipsy's, make a donation, have some coffee, hear some music and congratulate Jack on a job well done!

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First Annual ‘Mom’s Market’ Is May 7

2010-04-28T16:00:00Z

The first annual Mom's Market will be held at the Signal Mountain Town Hall on Friday, May 7, from 12 to 8 p.m. The event will serve as a fundraiser for the Mountain Arts Community Center (MACC) and is being organized by resident Kim Livingood, Special Events Volunteer for MACC. The Market will be held at the Town Hall this year because the MACC is under construction. In the future it will be at the new facility and will likely grow.

Vendors of anything that would "pamper and honor mothers" are invited to apply; the market will not be limited to crafters or artisans. Gift certificates to restaurants, massage therapists, florists and many other businesses will be available for purchase. Live musicians will provide entertainment, door prizes from participating vendors will be given away hourly and plenty of activities for children will keep everyone busy. The event promises to be a fun, relaxed way to finish up, or start, shopping for mom.

Livingood is a representative of Usborne Books and says that she is usually unable to set up a booth at other events because she doesn't actually create or make the products she sells. Many home-based business face the same barriers and she wanted to be sure that all vendors who sell products that would make good Mother's Day gifts could participate.

The Mom's Market will provide a family friendly and fun way to support an organization that is important to the community. If you are interested in participating as a vendor, contact Kim Livingood by email at k.livingood@comcast.net.

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Candidate Forum Summarized

2010-04-27T10:21:08Z

Paul Hendricks offers a wrap-up of the question and answer session between two Republican candidates for County Commission District 2 that took place at Sweet Gipsy Cafe on Saturday, April 24.

Via paulmhendricks.blogspot.com

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Cheeseburgers and Good Deeds

2010-04-23T10:00:52Z

My daughter works at McDonald's. A few days ago she said, "Mom, did you know those guys from the gym come buy 100 cheeseburgers every Saturday for the homeless?"

The Signal Mountain Athletic Club (SMAC) is the "gym" she was referring to, but I had no idea who "those guys" could be. SMAC has been in the paper and on the news recently because the owners have purchased the old Signal Mountain Middle School building and will be making upgrades and moving. I hadn't heard anything about a program to feed the homeless, though.

I decided to investigate and called the gym to ask questions. Darrell Wyke answered the phone and told me that the cheeseburgers and the gym are totally unrelated. Darrell and his brother buy the cheeseburgers each week of their own volition, on their time, with their money. They just happen to work at the gym.

Darrell operates his own business — he is a personal trainer and fitness coach — and is also a minister in Bridgeport, Ala. While he doesn't live on Signal Mountain, he spends as many as 15 hours a day in the community and his business is based here. When I asked how he got started buying burgers for the homeless, he told me an interesting story.

Driving home one night about two and a half years ago, he saw a homeless person and had a sort of epiphany. He suddenly realized that he didn't need anyone's permission to do something to help and that he could do something on his own. So, Darrell went to Kentucky Fried Chicken and bought 10 meals, took them downtown and started looking for homeless, hungry people.

Darrell says the experience has helped him realize that he is blessed, and he believes it is important to be a good steward of the money and time that God allows him to have. From the very beginning, he didn't take the food to a shelter or organization, but went to the area across from the downtown post office and to the soup kitchen and the blocks surrounding Patten Towers — and anywhere else he could think of to find people who may need his help. He asks nothing in return and wants only to perform an act of kindness and encouragement.

Shortly after that first distribution of 10 plates from KFC, Darrell and his brother David were buying 40 plates of food to distribute each week. They decided that with the same amount of money, they could buy 100–120 cheeseburgers from McDonald's and help even more people. Now, they not only hand out food, but also t-shirts and friendship. Darrell has a line of shirts with the appropriate phrase, "We sacrifice, we excel" printed on them, which he hands out to those who need a fresh shirt.

"Those people deserve a clean shirt as much as I do or as much as my clients do," he said. "I want to encourage them and let them know the situation isn't hopeless or permanent."

People in need downtown recognize and look forward to seeing Darrell and David after all this time, and he says they have formed friendships and know many of the homeless in Chattanooga by name.

When I asked if he would want other people to donate money to help, Darrell said no. He said that it usually takes at least two hours to distribute the food and giving money is easy to do. If people really want to make an impact, they need to give their time.

We hear people voice concern about the homeless in our town frequently. There are debates and surveys and studies. Most of us are happy to give when a representative from a homeless shelter is on the news talking about the desperate need for blankets during cold weather. When there is a disaster or emergency, we respond with heartfelt concern. Darrell Wyke takes things up a notch.

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Food Notes

2010-03-28T22:02:18Z

If you enjoy organic produce and you like the idea of purchasing local food, you might want to look into becoming a member of the Signal Mountain Farm Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Your membership gets you the freshest organic produce imaginable throughout the growing season. Thomas O'Neal runs the CSA and offers several options for shares, payment and pick-up points. Membership is a bargain if you consider the cost of purchasing organic produce at a grocery store.

Do you like beer? Have you ever wanted to learn to make it yourself? Now is your chance! Tony Giannasi, president of the Barley Mob Homebrewers, will be teaching homebrewing classes at the Mountain Arts Community Center beginning April 1 for 10 a.m. classes, and a night class will be offered on Wednesdays beginning April 7 at 7:30 p.m. The class will run eight weeks and follow-up, advanced classes are planned.

Finally, one of the major drawbacks of using locally produced food is that it is often a step outside of what we might call "normal." For instance, most of us have favorite recipes that call for certain ingredients that are not always in season locally but that are always available in grocery stores. Learning to eat seasonally can take some adjusting.

A small group of people on the mountain have been considering having a monthly get-together to share recipes, tips, tricks and sources for local food. The meetings would most likely take place at one of the three community centers on the mountain and would be an informal and comfortable time for talking food and maybe even cooking a dish or two. If you would be interested in attending such a meeting, please send an email to dstewart@chattarati.com with your thoughts and suggestions.

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