Eddie Smith, Gloria Johnson state House campaign turns 'clownish'

The contest for the 13^th District state House seat has gotten nasty.

Late last week, the state GOP (or whoever – they’re the ones who called me anyway) put out a new mailer that appears to depict Democrat challenger Gloria Johnson as a clown and says her “liberal agenda” is “just as scary as creepy clowns.”

Uhg.

Anyhoo, Johnson, issued a statement this morning denouncing the “false attacks being made by special interest groups” and called on incumbent Eddie Smith, a Republican, “to condemn the smears.”

“Tennesseans for Student Success claims to be an education focused non-profit but they have spent tremendous resources launching negative attacks that have nothing to do with education, against life-long teacher and candidate for state representative, Gloria Johnson, the statement said.  Also this week, the Tennessee Republican House Caucus began a negative attack ad against Johnson making absolutely untrue claims.”

Added Johnson: “These special interest smears against our campaign are sign of desperation because they know our message of investing in schools, making health care more affordable and strengthening the middle class is winning. Eddie Smith should tell his big money friends to pack up their dirty tricks and get out of Knoxville. Volunteer families don’t want elections bought by special interests, they want fair elections and clean campaigning.”

Johnson has scheduled a press conference at 2 p.m. today at 311 Morgan St.

As always, send over your political stuff for publication consideration.

8 qualifiy as presidential write-ins

Earlier this month, Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam said he wasn't voting for Republican Donald "I promise I respect women more than you do" Trump, and suggested writing in the human groper's vice presidential running mate, Mike Pence.

Anyhoo, guess what? It won't count.

Yep. There's an actual list of "qualified" write-in candidates who will count, according to the Secretary of State's Office.

Here they are:

• Darrell L. Castle
• Cherunda Fox
• Tom Hoefling
• Kyle Kenley Kopitke
• Laurence Kotlikoff
• David Limbaugh
• Evan McMullin
• Marshall Schoenke
• Mike Donila

Heh. Kidding about that last one, but you can write him in anyway.

Staples picked to replace Democrat Armstrong in state House race

The Knox County Democrats last night picked Rick Staples to replace state Rep. Joe Armstrong in the race for the 15th District House seat.

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, you should know that Armstrong was recently found guilty of filing a false tax return, which is a felony, which means he's no longer in contention for the seat he's held for 28 years.

Anyhoo, it came down to Staples, who's lost two local races, Armstrong's wife, LeTonia, and former Knoxville Mayor and City Councilman Dan Brown.

Staples will take on independent Pete Drew in the November general election.

Hornback grabs 'Burchett' websites

Brian Hornback

UPDATE: Comments from Burchett and Hornback at bottom

They don't call him "the rogue" for nothing.

It appears that local blogger Brian Hornback has fired another shot (sort of) at Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett, this time scooping up a number of internet domain name registrations including timburchett.com, timburchett.info and timburchett.org.

In addition, he also snagged electburchett.com, which expired and is the site the mayor typically uses when running for office. And if you click on it, guess where it will take you? Yep, to the rogue's home. Heh.

Anyhoo, this could get interesting because - as the hippie over at knoxviews noted - "if Tim Burchett decides to run for another office, it appears Brian Hornback holds the keys to his online presence."

Tim Burchett

Burchett, who is term-limited - is serving his second four-year term as mayor. He has a little more than two years left in the term.

The mayor on Wednesday did not appear happy about the move:

"It's been reported that Brian apparently has registered my campaign domain and redirected it to his blog," he said in a written statement. "Ultimately, we're talking about someone who doesn't like me personally, and who drags my beautiful wife and sweet daughter into his blog posts. At the end of the day, all I can do is pray for someone like that, and that's what I do for Brian."  

Brian fired back after hearing the mayor's remarks:

"Mayor Burchett has repeatedly stated that he is term limited and now a proud father. He has made no public indications of seeking higher office. Clearly in my opinion this is the strongest indication to date that Mayor Burchett plans on not pursuing any future political aspirations."

"If the Mayor doesn't have the ability or wherewithal to manage a website domain. It really begs the question, can he manage anything of substance?"

"The acquisitions of the domains was a strategic business move in an effort to potentially enlarge the base of political commentary in the Southeastern region of the United States. I thank the Mayor for this business opportunity as he has continually stressed his commitment to small businesses."

Going over Tuesday's election picks

Jennifer Owen

So, how did the ol' Porch do when calling Tuesday night's elections? Well, pretty darn great.

I got nine out of 11. Not too, too shabby. You can read the original predictions RIGHT SMACK HERE.

But, a slight recap.

The county commission races were pretty easy. Michele Carringer is too well known in that 2nd District to lose. Advice: This campaign ain't over. The general election won't be easy.

4th District Incumbent Jeff Ownby's past problem was too much for him to overcome politically (although I do believe he's a good commissioner), and Hugh Nystrom is just too strong of an opponent. The third candidate, Janet Testerman, didn't campaign as hard and didn't campaign right. Her platform was way too general and didn't contain enough substance. Advice: Talk to Jeff. He listens to his constituents.

Brad Anders creamed John Ashley. Everyone saw this one coming. Advice: I don't really have any.

Laura Kildare over Cheri Siler was an easy one, but I figured Siler - with her name recognition - would pull some votes and she did, despite suspending her campaign several months ago. Advice: Campaign hard in the general election. Carringer isn't a pushover.

The countywide races were a little more tricky. Quite frankly - and I was right - I suspected incumbent Law Director Richard "Bud" Armstrong to pull 60 percent over challenger Nathan Rowell. Again, the commercial with county Mayor Tim Burchett supporting "my friend" Bud was a killer. Advice: Rowell says he's going to run in four years. He probably wouldn't be a bad choice, but he needs to lose the slogan that he's a "professional and not a politician." If you run for office you're a politician. Period.

I had John Whitehead down for "barely, barely" beating Jim Weaver in the property assessor's race. He did. By 70 votes. That one could have gone either way. Weaver got a little dirty toward the end, bringing in Whitehead's family, but, whatever, it's politics. Credit to Whitehead for hiring Clay Crownover as his political handler. He knows what he's doing. Even though he's a Democrat in Knox County. Heh. Hahaha. Advice: Don't go into the office and fire everyone. There's good people who work there.

On the school board side of things, I picked a runoff between Susan Horn and Buddy Pelot with Lori Ann Boudreaux placing third. I got that one right as well. I thought there might be a slim chance that Horn would get 50 percent plus one and win it outright, but Pelot was well-funded, so I figured she'd probably hover around 45 percent. I was right on that. Advice: It's gonna take more than money to win this race.

On the presidential side, I picked Trump and Clinton. No-brainers. Advice: Prepare yourself Tennessee. Regardless of who our next president is. Heh.

Now, what did I miss?

OK, I had Rick Staples over Evelyn Gill in the commission race. Like I said, she looks great on paper but he's out there campaigning. Here's why I think he lost. Rick has run unsuccessfully for office a number of times. That puts a bad taste in some folks' mouths. I think it did him in. Advice: Gill, even though she's a Democrat in a strong Democrat district, is in for a fight in the general election. Michael Covington, a Republican, is a strong candidate.

My second bad call was picking Grant Standefer over Jennifer Owen. I'm sorry, but I didn't give her a snowball's chance. This was clearly a pro-superintendent vs anti-superintendent race and the last time that happened in North Knoxville, the heavily funded pro-Jim McIntyre candidate (Tracie Sanger) won. Now, that McIntyre is stepping down as superintendent he was not even a factor. That led me to believe that Grant - with all the coin that the big wigs gave him - was a shoe in. Oops. Advice: Never, never, never underestimate the art of shoe leather and banging on doors.

Anyhoo, congrats to the winners. And those who didn't win aren't necessarily bad candidates. I can see many of them coming back for another shot someday. 

Porch election predictions/guesses

I suppose it’s time roll out the ol’ Porch’s annual Election Day predictions.

Now, I can’t stress enough that my picks are not endorsements, recommendations, whatevers. These are just the folks I think will more than likely win in the contested primaries.

I should note that I’ve enjoyed meeting with all of the candidates. You also can check out their guest segments on Inside Tennessee RIGHT SMACK HERE.

Anyhoo, here ya go:

REPUBLICANS:

County Commission 2nd: Michele Carringer over John Fugate

Why: I think Michele has campaigned harder. Also – and this is key – when she ran for the countywide seat some time back against Ed Brantley, she apparently beat him in her district. That’s a big deal. Ed is known widely throughout the county and is more recognizable than Fugate, so I figure if she beats him, then she can beat John. That said, John is a damn nice guy based on the conversations I’ve had with him.

County Commission 4th: Hugh Nystrom defeats incumbent Jeff Ownby and Janet Testerman

Why: Hugh has really worked this campaign and knows a ton of people. Jeff obviously has that past issue, which is going to cost him, and, quite frankly, I just haven’t heard a lot about Testerman. That said, Jeff is a good commissioner who takes constituency services very seriously. He answers his phone and enjoys meeting with the people in his district.

County Commission 6th: Brad Anders easily handles John Ashley

Why: Seriously? That said the community is always better off when there are contested races because it typically creates debate. So, shout out to John for running.

Law Director: Richard “Bud” Armstrong defeats Nathan Powell

Why: Flat out, more people know Bud. And that commercial/political advertisement that Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett did for him was the killer. That said, Nathan would probably not have a problem doing the job.

Property Assessor: John Whitehead barely, barely defeats Jim Weaver. Third candidate Andrew Graybeal garners few votes.

Why: This is the toughest one for me to call, and I might change my mind tomorrow before early voting results come in. Both Weaver and Whitehead know the office. But a lot of folks know the “Whitehead” name from his time as assessor (2000-08). Early on, local polling actually put Whitehead far ahead of the other two candidates. Since then, Weaver has spent a ton of coin and current Property Assessor Phil Ballard (who is term-limited) has started to get out the word. Weaver has caught up and, I believe, some polls even had him neck-and-neck with Whitehead or even ahead. Still, with gun to my head I think Whitehead narrowly edges him. That said, I suspect if Whitehead does win, there may be a spot for Weaver if he wants it.

DEMOCRATS:

County Commission 1st: Rick Staples easily defeats Evelyn Gill

Why: On paper, Gill looks like a great candidate. But, she’s not working it like Staples is. The guy is everywhere and he has name recognition from previous campaigns. That said, he might have some problems in the general election.

County Commission 2nd: Laura Kildare beats Cheri Siler

Why: Siler suspended her campaign in December and hasn't done anything to get her name out. That said, she's told supporters if she wins, she'll run in August.

SCHOOL BOARD:

District 2: Grant Standefer defeats Jennifer Owen

Why: Grant has more money and more name recognition. Also, Superintendent Jim McIntyre is no longer a factor, since he’s stepping down in July. Candidates in the past were able to use him – good or bad – as an election platform. They can’t do it this time and I think that hurts Jennifer. That said, she could do the job as well.

District 5: Susan Horn and Buddy Pelot force a runoff. Lori Ann Boudreaux comes in third

Why: I just don’t see Horn or Pelot, who each have more name recognition and coin than Boudreaux, getting the 50 percent plus one vote. One of them might come close, but I expect it to go to the runoff in August. That said, I could be wrong. Heh.

On a side note, I’m pretty sure Tennesseans to give Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton the presidential nods.

Elections: Balance of power to shift on school board next September

Jim McIntyre

Knox County Schools Superintendent Jim McIntyre had a pretty good year.

The school system earned some fancy awards, test scores jumped slightly and the graduation rate increased, albeit a tad.

He even convinced his 5-member voting bloc to extend his contract, which already had two years remaining on it, for another two years.

Like I said, it was a pretty good year for him.

That’s expected to change in 2016, at least the final quarter of it.

When candidates seeking the four open seats on the Board of Education turned in their qualifying papers by the noon deadline on Thursday, the balance of power on the board shifted. Or it will when the members are sworn into office in early September.

For those who don’t know, McIntyre has enjoyed a 5-member voting bloc of Doug Harris, Karen Carson, Tracie Sanger, Gloria Deathridge and Lynne Fugate.

The other members? Mike McMillan, Terri Hill, Patti Bounds and Amber Rountree? Yeah, not so much.

Anyhoo, McMillan’s seat was up for re-election and no one challenged him. He’s in.

Doug Harris opted not to run again, and in comes Tony Norman, a former biology teacher, a former Knox County Commissioner, and someone who is NOT a fan of McIntyre.

To say these two have a frosty relationship would be an understatement. I’ll leave it at that.

Tony Norman

But no one challenged Tony. He’s in.

The balance of power in September will still be at least 5-4, but it won't favor the superintendent.

It’s a good thing he got that contract extension. The September 2016 board would more than likely would not have signed off on it.

Now, we’re not done here.

Tracie Sanger, who raised about $50,000 to run for a two-year spot on the board (she’s was filling in for Indya Kincannon who stepped down), also opted not to run. I’m told that it’s for health reasons and because she wants to spend time with her family. Fair enough.

Jennifer Owen, a former teacher, and not a McIntyre fan is seeking the seat. So, too, is Grant Standefer, executive director of the Compassion Coalition. From what I’m told, he is a fan.

Expect big bucks to pour in for Standefer. Owen, in order to win, is gonna have to knock on a ton of doors. She’s definitely going to be outspent.

Now, Karen Carson also opted not to run.

So, in comes Lori Ann Boudreaux, Susan Horn and Reuben “Buddy” Pelot. Now, I’m told Horn isn’t in McIntyre’s corner and Pelot is. I’m not sure about Boudreaux. I’ve heard both about her.

Now, why is this important?

Well, because by September the voting bloc against the superintendent might very well be 6-3.

In addition, Terry Hill is expected to become the chair of the board. To add insult to injury, to rub a little salt in the wound, I wouldn’t flinch if Amber Rountree became vice chair.

Like I said, there’s a good chance it won’t be great year for the superintendent.

Now, all that said, the board can’t lose sight of what it’s supposed to do: Make the school system better for the students.

I have long said that I truly believe McIntyre does want to do right for the students.I do believe that.

But it’s going to take both him and the board working together to make that happen. And this time the board – not the McIntyre administration – is going to be driving the train.

Is that right? 

I don’t know.

But come September, we’re more than likely gonna find out.

Commish candidate Ashley fires first shot in campaign against Anders

John Ashley, who is running for County Commission to represent the Northwest Knox, Hardin Valley, and Karns areas against 6th District Commissioner Brad Anders, sent out a release on Friday.

I talked to him briefly. He's a Knoxville native, married with two children. He's 36, works for a payroll company, and said he wanted to run because he doesn't think "we have proper representation for someone listening to the community."

He said Brad has his own agenda and it's "time for someone to step up and listen to what the community wants."

"We're being too reactive - we need someone who will make decisions and not pass on votes."

 

In his press release, he noted a reprimand Brad received back in the summer of 2013, but then asked me not to include it to; instead, he wanted to focus on more current issues. Er, OK.

Here's the rest of the release.

Then this year (2015) alone two instances have come up to question the current commissioner’s decision-making abilities.  Elected officials are put into office to make tough decisions on issues that are facing our county.  They are elected to make those tough decisions.  

The rezoning proposal was dismissed before anyone could take a stance, given the opportunity I would have taken a stance to stop the rezoning.  The dismissal was wrong and done without the communities input.   There was no strategic plan for the placement of the proposed building to be built.  I believe as a leader you step up and take your place when something is not right.   

More recently the Knox County E-911 Board has spent nearly $40,000 on a study that concluded the $8.9 million proposal by the Harris Corp., which was recommended by the board and a private consulting group appointed by the board. Your commissioner declined to vote because he didn’t feel the initial bidding process was “clean”. We are spending our tax dollars for a decision to be made.

I think it is time we start getting some accountability and answers to these questions. What really happened in 2013? Where does the current County Commissioner stand if the rezoning issue arises again?  What will he do when it comes time to vote again on the 911 communication issue and the same result is the Harris Corp. recommendation?

The rezoning John mentioned was tied to the proposed land swap at Nicholas Ball Park that would have potentially led to a new Walmart.

I'm not sure what he's complaining about. The deal is dead.

In regards to the E-911 board vote, yeah, Brad is going to be answering that one for a long time to come.

Anyhoo, send me your political/election stuff for publication consideration.

I'm out.

McIntyre turns in self-evaluation

Knox County Schools Superintendent Jim McIntyre has turned in his performance self-evaluation, and it's quite glowing.

But, I mean, what do you expect? It's not like he's going to criticize himself.

Still, he just couldn't help taking a shot at "one or two" school board members. Heh.

We broke it down/summarized the self-evaluation RIGHT HERE, but you can read the entire 8-page memo RIGHT HERE.

On the surface, McIntyre has a lot to stand on.

The school system has earned a number of accolades during the past year and the graduation rate is up, albeit slightly.

(You might that McIntyre at one point uses numbers/increases from the the time he was hired in 2008 until now, but it's immaterial. The review is for 2014-15 - not 2008 through 2015 - but I digress.)


Anyhoo, the school board in the coming weeks or months or whenever will talk more about the evaluation and members will give their input.

It will certainly be interesting as McIntyre claims that "district leadership is carefully listening to and supporting our teachers and staff . . . ."

I'll leave it at that.

You can decide.

Rogero scoffs at claims of KKK ties

So, um, there's an online video going around trying to tie Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero to the KKK. Also on the list is Lexington Mayor Jim Gray, who is gay. Not sure he'd be allowed in the KKK. (And I'm pretty sure the KKK wants nothing to do with Rogero.)

But whatever.

Anyhoo, a lot of folks are saying that the list came from Anonymous, but I don't think that's the case.

Anonymous has said they are going to release the names of 1,000 KKK members on Nov. 5. This isn't that list. It doesn't help, however, that Anonymous has linked to it on its Facebook page.

Anyway, here's our story RIGHT SMACK HERE.

Personally, it's sad that we have to report it, but if we didn't there would be that vocal minority claiming the "liberal media" is protecting Rogero. Yeah, whatever.

Plus Rogero, herself, got out in front of it and released a statement. It's actually pretty funny. Again, click on the link about for the story.

KCS looking at possible change from block to traditional schedules

I'm thinking one of the next big KCS things coming up (other than the superintendent's evaluation) is a discussion centered around whether to move Knox County high school classes from a block schedule to a traditional schedule.

Some officials say the move would save millions - possibly between $6 million and $10 million - through teacher layoffs and attrition during the course of several years.

There's obviously pros and cons with each. I'm thinking for teachers, it means they're going to be up later at night and working longer hours (they really don't get their summers off, so quit with that BS) because they'll be planning for eight classes rather than four.

But, it's probably a better move for students.

For example, think about math, a subject that compounds learning strategies and formulas as you continue to move higher. A student taking a course first semester sophomore year might not take it again until second semester junior year. That's a long time, whereas the traditional schedule would give you a healthy dose of it, something that would lessen the chances a student forgets the subject.

Or not.

Also, and this was explained to me awhile back but I wasn't really paying attention, but apparently block schedules give students second changes to pass classes or something. Anyway, it's all tied into scores or graduation or something that a student apparently won't get under the traditional schedule. If true, that alone should scare some folks that want to see the student graduation percentages increase.

That said, the proposal to change schedules comes from the Parthenon Group, which has caught heck from quite a few folks. Expect that to come into play.

Anyhoo, The school board is expected to start discussing the matter during its Monday meeting.

For more, RIGHT SMACK HERE.

KCS plan to move AJ Building school employees doesn't appear feasible

When Knox County and school officials finally got together to seriously consider selling the historic downtown A.J. Building, the plan was simple: Find some space to move the 209 employees who work there, sell the building and get it back on the tax rolls.

Or so the public was led to believe.

No, it’s not that simple.

The Knox County School system is seeking something a lot more complicated.

And quite frankly, what they’re seeking is probably not feasible.

Why?

Well, maybe the reality hit the KCS administration that the county is serious about selling this building and now some folks don’t want to leave.

That’s just pure speculation of course. Heh.

So, here’s the deal.

KCS sort of began the bidding process by asking the county’s purchasing department to seek “requests for information” from folks (mostly Realtors, I guess) who would be interested in moving not only the administration offices but the operational side as well.

Now wait a second!

I thought we just needed to move the administration. You know, the peeps who work in the A.J. Building.

What’s up with this operations thing? They don’t operate in the AJ Building. No, they’ve got a nice set up off East Fifth Avenue and Rule High School.

Well now, that changes everything.

You see, instead of looking for 100,000 square feet of space, the school system wants HUNDREDS and HUNDRES of THOUSANDS of square feet, including warehouse space that will hold massive vehicles, and classroom space and parking lots that will hold more than a thousand cars.

Granted, the school system said it would settle for a proposal that just moves the administrative offices, and if you asked the good folks over there, they’d just tell you that they’re testing the water.

No conspiracy here. No way.

Whatever.

The KCS almost always asks for more.

Why stop now?

Anyhoo, I’ve talked to quit a few county officials about this and they know what’s up.

Heh.

As it stands, the next step is to look over the proposals. I suspect the building will be put on the market, but I don’t expect much to change for a couple of years.

These things take time.

Here’s the story, RIGHT SMACK HERE, we did about the proposal.

Smoking Joe indicted for fraud

Joe Armstrong

By now you know that state House Democrat Joe Armstrong was indicted by a federal grand jury Wednesday on charges he took part in a tax fraud scheme involving the sale of state cigarette tax stamps.

The plot dates to 2006 and continued to November 2013. (I'd make some crack about taking nine years to figure it out, but, well, no, not a good idea. Heh.)

Anyhoo, you can find a bunch of stories on our website wbir.com including HERE, HERE and HERE.

I had yesterday off, but pitched in. By that I mean, read a bunch of emails and stories as they came in and cheered on my team for getting it first AND right.

So, that means I have a bunch of stuff/statements that didn't get used, or did get used and is worth reposting, since I"m cleaning out my email.

Here ya go:

From Smoking Joe himself: This investigation has been ongoing for a number of years. I have a strong belief and respect for our system of justice. I look forward to addressing these allegations and the truth coming out in the very near future."

From his attorney, Gregory P. Isaacs, who says pretty much the same thing for all of his clients (but the dude does a pretty good job): Our firm . .  . has been conducting a parallel investigation for the past few months. Representative Armstrong has proudly served his constituents for the 15th District . . . for the past 28 years; where he has emerged as a leader in Tennessee state government. Representative Armstrong intends to enter a plea of not guilty to each and every count of the indictment. Joe is an innocent tax payer who relied upon a tax professional as it relates to the filing of his tax returns."   

From House Democratic Leader Craig: “Joe Armstrong and I have served together for over 20 years. In that time, I have never known him to be anything other than a dedicated public servant and an advocate for his community. We have a justice system in place to deal with these situations. I believe it is important to reserve our judgement until all the facts have come to light. Until then, my thoughts are with Joe and his family as this process moves forward.”

Cameron Brooks, Knox County Democratic Party chairman: “Joe’s a great guy. He’s a friend of mine. He’s been a really good ally for the working people in the Legislature. I just pray that these allegations aren’t true, and I believe that he is innocent until proven guilty. I really don’t know what else to say."

 

Brooks added that Armstrong “is someone who has your back. He comes through on his commitments, and is someone who is relatively young in politics, he’s always been there for me when I needed something – for advice, when I had a question. I appreciate that.”

 

Robert Booker, Director of the Beck Cultural Center and Community Activist: "Stunned" He added that he “admires Joe tremendously and that it is an “unbelievable accusation.”

 

Booker says he’s know Armstrong since about 1980.  His fondest memory of Joe Armstrong is when he and then-state senator Tim Burchett were instrumental in getting the Summit Hill Bridge over the James White Parkway named after him.

Carlene Malone, Former Knoxville City Council Member: “I really like Joe and he’s been a tremendous representative.  I certainly hope this is not true.”

 

Carlene says she’s know and worked with Armstrong since the 80’s.

 

She says he worked with her to fight against a proposed mass incinerator in the area.  She also says Armstrong was instrumental helping the development of the Wee Course and Lakeshore Park.

Sylvia Woods, member of the public assembly facilities board: "Joe Armstrong is my friend and my TN House Representative. He has voted over the years to advocate for his constituents and is available to the community to listen and help. I hope this unfortunate problem can be straightened out. My prayers are with his family."

Former city councilwoman Barbara Pelot: "I'm just sad. Totally stunned by the story. I didn't expect to hear that at all."

Pelot said she enjoyed working with Armstrong over the years and considered him a friend to his district and to all of Knoxville.

She said she thinks the world of Armstrong and his family and she hopes "somehow they will find that it isn't accurate."

Susan Williams, who runs her own PR firm and is a Republican Inside Tennessee panelist: "like everybody in the knoxville community i think i was shocked. You know we've all known representative armstrong for a long time. I've worked with him in the past on legislation and you know he's just been a pilar of our community.

"I hope none of us will rush to judgment on this but you know, regardless of the outcome. It certainly doesn't help your political career."

"He may decide that he resigns because he doesn't want to put everybody through this. He could decide to stay, fight it of course, I'm sure he will fight it and stay in the general assembly until there is some kind of finality."

"If he's innocent it's a really horrible thing to have to go through. If he's guilty, he's still gonna have to go through all of this playing this out in the media and in the courts and for somebody like Joe who's been so highly regarded and well respected, it's really going to be difficult on him personally and on his family and friends."

"I don't think anybody in the republican party would take any joy out of this because this is a man that we've all known and liked and respected."

"I think we were all shocked by this and frankly I hope it's not true because I like Joe Armstrong. I've respected him as a legislator because he's a man that's gotten along with both sides. you know, whatever party is in power in Nashville. he's worked with both sides."

"It's really just almost heartbreaking to see this happen. but you know, again, this is a serious charge and if it is something that he has done then it's just going to have to play itself out."

Rev. Harold Middlebrook: "I have found him to be honest with us in dealings, and so it is shocking to me. I just don't believe that, i don't want to believe that it is deliberate."

'The Jim & Tim Show' announce changes to the proposed budget; the good, bad, whatever and looking ahead

McIntyre, left, Burchett, right

By now I suspect everyone has heard about the little Kumbaya the county mayor and superintendent had this afternoon when the two got together to announce major changes to the proposed $747.2 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

Superintendent Jim McIntyre even joked about how the media often calls it the "Jim Vs. Tim Show." Or some such nonsense. Heh. Yeah, actually it's true, and for his sake I hope he doesn't expect today's dog and pony show to do away with it.

Folks, these two do not get along. And they will find other things to fight about.

But, for today they did. Get along. I suppose.

Anyhoo, we've got stories RIGHT SMACK HERE. I was off today, so I took a leisurely nap while the hoopla took place and now get to armchair quarterback.

Why? 'Cause I'm obnoxious.

So, at the heart of the proposals is a plan to build schools in the Hardin Valley and the Gibbs community. But, not one in north central Knox County.

There will be no tax increase. The county will have more control over the school system's purse strings (old, old consent decree be damned). Teachers will get a 2 percent raise. The mayor will phase out his reading program. The A.J. Building will be put up for sale.

BURCHETT'S SPEECH: RIGHT SMACK HERE.

MOU: RIGHT SMACK HERE

There's more, of course, but you can check out WBIR - hey, we'll have stories all day today - for the most complete coverage.

That said, this isn't some touchy, feely blog where we give out compliments. Heck no! We enjoy entertainment at other peoples' expense on the 'ol Porch.

So, let's look at this plan. There are lots and lots of problems.

The proposal will build a school for a community that does not need it. End of argument. Disagree, whatever, I don't care. The proponents of this school say the bus routes are long, their children spend hours getting carted to and from school, etc. Guess what? It's worse elsewhere.

Others say that building a school in East Knox County will encourage growth and development. Guess what? School systems aren't in the business to encourage development. I'm respectfully disagreeing here with Knox County Commissioner Dave Wright who will tell you - and he'll do it convincingly - otherwise.

Hardin Valley needs a school. So does North Central Knoxville, or Knox County, or wherever it was McIntyre proposed building one. Rezoning isn't going to work, and the students aren't just going to disappear by not building it.

Why didn't this school get thrown into the mix? Blame the parents, blame the representation (on the school board and the county commission). Squeaky wheel and all that. Sit on your hands and do nothing, you get nothing.

The folks out in East Knox County know how to petition leadership. Heck, they got a Carter Elementary school built a few years ago (although they did need one).

Now, the county could be on the hook for $9 million to build Gibbs. Since the county's purchasing department - under Burchett's management - will oversee the bidding, building, whatever, I suspect the school will be built for under $25 million, rather than the "up to $30 million" proposal. (The school system covers the rest.)

That said, if the county is on the hook for $9 million, that really means the county is on the hook for about 18 million. Bonds. Interest. 20 years.

OK, so we build schools - how do we pay to operate them (as much as $6 million a year)? Well, supposedly school debt is falling off. So, as long as the school system doesn't increase it's capital budget, then they can use that money.

Yeah, well, don't forget that elementary school in North Central Knox that we still need.

I don't buy it. No, here's what probably happens. The schools come online in a couple years when Burchett is out of office and there's a push for a tax increase to cover these costs.

Also under the plan, McIntyre will cut $1 million in administrative costs. Whatever that means. Maybe he'll quit putting employees on paid administrative leave for years on end. Maybe he'll get rid of his buddies. Maybe he'll quit handing out raises and calling them promotions.

Whatever.

Either way, it could be a sticking point if the Board of Education doesn't like his proposed cuts.

And they might not. The dude tried to save a ton of coin years ago by outsourcing custodians and that went over like a lead balloon. (That was actually a compliment by the way.)

Today's proposal, however, might - I said "might" - make for a headache free budget session next year, and for a few more years to come. You see under the plan, McIntyre won't put together a budget that goes above and beyond revenue projections, like he has a number of times in the past couple of years.

But - BUT - the county finance is charged with coming up with those projections and the KCS school system must approve them. So, there's THAT. And THAT is called an escape clause. (Burchett's people are ultra conservative when it comes to revenue projections. Note all the surplus coin each year.)

Further, we're talking about two entities (county-school) that don't agree on a lot when it comes to dollars, cents and sense.

Still, Burchett can buckle down and start running for another office without having to worry about getting dinged on school issues. (The memorandum of understanding that Burchett and McIntyre created ends when he leaves his mayoral post. That shouldn't be lost on anyone.)

Further, the county now has some control over the school system's purse strings. Not a lot, but there were some concessions made today.

Look, I could complain about this all day, and some will. Today's announcement is gonna get a lot of play in the media, and rightly so.

And within a month, I suspect we'll see the return of the true "Jim and Tim Show."

But, well, screw it. They get today.

So, congratulations for trying to work together and better the county and the school system.

Too bad it wasn't done earlier.

Heh.

I'm out.

BOE member's friend jumps the gun; solicits campaign funds too early

Karen Carson

Seems that in the past couple of days, a lot of folks spent some time talking about an email sent out by a former school board member, hoping to raise campaign coin for a current school board member who wants to run for a state seat.

Me? I spent my time watching Mick and Keith tear up Ohio Stadium. And it was awesome. Heh.

Anyhoo, there’s the deal:

Knox County school board member Karen Carson plans to run for the 14th District state House seat that was recently vacated by Ryan Haynes, R-Knoxville. More than likely the primary will be held on Aug. 12 with the general election on Sept. 29.

(Don’t hold me to it, but for what it’s worth, I believe Carson once told me she is Republican.)

Now, here’s the problem:

Diane Jablonski, a former school board member who also sat on the county’s charter review committee, sent an email out on Friday evening to a number of folks, soliciting campaign dollars for Carson’s eventual campaign. (And, yes, for those asking, Superintendent Jim McIntyre was copied on the email although that shouldn’t mean anything one way or the other.)

This is the email:

My friend, Karen Carson has decided to run for the vacant state representative seat, previously held by Ryan Haynes, This will be a very short campaign and Karen needs our help now. Karen has served our district with excellence as the 5th district School Board representative. She has been Board chair and as such represented the entire county. She is also an emergency room nurse at Children's hospital and I cannot think of anyone would rather have attending to my child. Her knowledge of a broad scope of state issues is beyond most other candidates. I implore you to support her efforts by sending a campaign donation to Karen Carson for State Representative. Please be generous, your donation of $100, $200, $500, or $1,000 can make a huge difference to our area. Karen is still in the process of establishing her campaign; but you can send your donation to me and I will make sure that her campaign gets it!

Jablonski in the past has served as Carson’s campaign treasurer when she ran for her school board seat. However, Carson as of Monday night had not officially appointed a treasurer for a state seat nor had she filed the paperwork.

That means no one at this point should be soliciting money on behalf of Carson.

I talked with Drew Rawlins, the executive director of the Tennessee Bureau of Ethics and Campaign Finance.

Here’s what he said, though, about it:

“You’re supposed to file an ‘appointment of treasurer’ with our office before you raise money. A person shouldn’t be raising money for someone else to run unless that person has appointed a treasurer. Someone should be appointed as a treasurer before someone raises money.”

He also said a candidate can be assessed a fine up to $10,000 for failing to appoint a treasurer.

Now, let’s not kid ourselves here – no one is getting fined $10,000. Or even $1,000. Or even $1.

Here’s what Carson, who said she was not aware of the email, told me:

“I will say at this point, I have told anybody I’m talking to that I’m seriously considering a run for that seat, but I am absolutely aware that I can’t take a penny until I have a treasurer and it’s filed with the state election commission.”

She also noted that she can’t run for a race until there’s an open seat. (Technically, there’s no election until the governor issues a “writ of election,” ordering one.)

She also said that she hasn’t directed anyone to solicit money “or taken a penny,” and that she’s “very aware of the finance laws.”

So, that leaves us with Jablonski. I reached out to her Monday night (and by the way folks, I’m not even supposed be working).

I asked her about the matter.

Here’s what she had to say:

“Mike I just was so excited about the prospect of Karen running that I totally jumped the gun by sending the e-mail. Karen had no knowledge of the email that I sent. I have resent to my contacts telling them that I had no permission to send the email and that any consideration of support for her run for the seat should wait until she has formally announced and named her treasurer. This is totally an error on my part as Karen had no knowledge of my attempts on her behalf. I have not raised any money thus far, and if I do receive any funds they will be returned with a letter of apology.”

So, there ya go.

Now, all that said, this is going to be one interesting one. There’s not a lot of time to campaign between now and the primary and this race will be the only one on the ballot. And I seriously doubt a lot of people will be hitting the ballot boxes come (special) Election Day.

Of course, I’ll let you know when we have the candidates on Inside Tennessee.

I’m out.

BOE to vote on $15K speaker fee

I'm sure this is gonna be money well spent. Apparently the Knox County School Board will vote on whether to:

Approve agreement with Baruti K. Kafele to conduct a three-day training on July 22, 23 and 24, 2015 for the staff of Vine Middle School and staff of other schools who desire to attend at a cost of $15,000.00

Now, here's the catch: It's on the consent agenda, which is Latin for "rubber stamp."

Now, I'm sure Mr. Kafele is a good dude and means well. He's got a fancy website RIGHT SMACK HERE and he likes to refer to himself as "Principal" Kafele. (I like that. I'm gonna start calling myself "Reporter" Mike.)

Anyhoo, according to the contract agreement that the board will be asked to approve - find that bad boy RIGHT SMACK HERE - Kefele "will provide educations with specific strategies within the 'Closing the Attitude Gap Program and Framework' for closing the attitude gap toward the ultimate elimination of underachievement in their classrooms and schools."

He'll also be talking about "changing the intentionality of excellence."

Whatever that means.

And all for $5,000 a day!

Like I said: Money well spent.

Heh.

Cost to determine school calendar

I don't really feel like dwelling on this, but Knox County Schools Superintendent Jim McIntyre says he will make a decision by July whether to recommend the district move to a "balanced calendar."

The phony baloney online survey that allowed people who don't live in the county to vote multiple times came back about two-thirds in favor of moving to the new system.

That's fine. Whatever. Personally, I don't think it's that big of a deal, although I am skeptical, if only because of the recent push. (Survey Monkey ruse. Heh.)

Anyhoo, it's all going to come down to cost, and I don't think the money is there.

McIntyre says he'll come back with the amount, but there's already some numbers getting kicked around, including as much as $10 million. Now, I'm not so sure it's that high, but if it's above and beyond the school system's expected revenue - and requires a tax increase - I don't see Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett supporting it.

Now will the Knox County Commission. Not if it's going to cost a ton of coin.

Further, there's a number of BOE members who are skeptical (and I'm not talking about the usual crowd). Doug Harris, according to Jack's birdcage liner, for example suggested that if we have the folding paper to cover a balanced calendar then perhaps it should first be used for teacher raises and new technology.

Good point.

Anyway, don't plan on a shorter summer break during the 2017-18 school year.

Hatfield backs Haynes for GOP chair

Looks like Ryan Haynes has at least one supporter in his bid for the Tennessee Republican Party chair seat. (Actually, he has quite a few supporters.)

Anyhoo, in a letter sent today to SEC members, District 6 party rep Ted Hatfield noted:

I wanted to write you today to tell you a little about my friend Ryan Haynes. I have had the pleasure to get to know Ryan over the last several years and witness firsthand his maturity, work ethic, and commitment to the Republican Party.

Ryan has worked countless hours not only in his own campaigns but assisted in the efforts of many other conservative candidates over the years. I have also had the pleasure to see his leadership qualities as he Chairs the Knox Co. Delegation of the legislature.

When Ryan gets involved in something he really goes all in as he has shown with his commitment to resign from the legislature if elected Chair. He has the ability to connect with many different types of people on many different levels and will make a great leader of this party. I hope you will join me in supporting Ryan Haynes for Party Chair on April 11th.

In addition to Ryan, Memphis radiologist George Flinn, state Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson; Rebecca Burke of Williamson County; and former Davidson County GOP Chairwoman Kathleen Starnes are vying for the seat.

Commissioners Ed and Bob to host public meeting, eat tons of pizza

I got a chuckle out of this one. As is typically the case, whenever two Knox County commissioners meet to talk, hang out, go fishing, whatever, they send out a Sunshine notice, letting the media and public know that they are welcome to attend.

You know, just in case they talk about government stuff.

Anyhoo, commissioners Ed Brantley and Bob Thomas will host a community meeting on Feb. 18 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Halftime Pizza and Grill on Emory Road in Powell.

In the notice, the two said they plan to "meet the people of Knox County and listen to their concerns."

The note ends with the following:

"This is not a commission meeting. There is no agenda. There will be no votes taken; however lots of pizza will be consumed during the two hours."

And yes, it's open to the public. Now word on whether Bob and Ed are picking up the tab.

Burchett to push for radio vote

Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett said he wants to force E-911 Board members into publicly discussing why they declined to approve a contract to replace the area's outdated emergency broadcasting system.

He also wants board members to explain just exactly how they selected a board chair and whether the process was legal.

“There is too much uncertainty about the position of chair and the fact that, after 18 months of work on the radio communications (bidding) process, the awarded contract was never discussed or voted on in a public meeting,” the mayor said. “I will attend the next E-911 board meeting to see that a new chair is properly elected and to move that the awarded contract for E-911 radio services be approved so there can be open discussion and an up-or-down vote. It is my hope that, this time, a member of the E-911 board will second the motion in order to allow for discussion.”

The board next meets April 15.

Again, if Burchett and Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero actually attended these meetings, this might not have been an issue.

Anyhoo, full story RIGHT SMACK HERE.