(Again, I'm really pleased by all the new people we have commenting on the blog.  I'm reading everything, but I may not have time to comment on everything.  So I'm trying to reserve comments for when I feel like I actually have something to add.  Lots of really great suggestions in the comments on the last post.)



Which brings up a general point...while we may not always be happy with what our government does, there are a lot of great free and low cost government supported programs out there.  They range all over from free arts programs (like a Shakespeare production or children's story times) to computer or financial classes and public services like the library.  Most of these you can find out about online, particular if you live in or near a city or large town.  (You don't have to buy the book from the guy with the dollar signs on his suit, just take some iniative and do a little research.)

After the meeting, I went to walk around 100 Oaks Mall (well the outside of it, insides closed for remodel).  There's a Comp U.S.A. store there, going out of business.  It's kind of sad.  I'll miss the store, but I thought I should mention it.  They have most of their stock marked down, and they're even selling the store furniture and fixtures.  I saw some simple but sturdy looking computer desks going for $50 and several office chairs at about the same price.  If you're in the Nashville area and looking for computer/office oriented stuff, it may be worth checking out.  If you're not in Nashville, you may still want to keep your ear open for going out of business sales...some of these are better than others, but I've got some pretty good deals that way.  When the local Dillards went out of business a few years ago I picked up 2 coats for $2.99 each...I wore the red one out, but I still get compliments on the blue.